Question

Those who argue that there is something distinct about contemporary globalisation, point out to which one of the following?

• A. Globalisation has taken place through much of human history.
• B. It is a mistake to assume globalisation as a purely cultural phenomenon.
• C. The vastly uneven impact of globalisation on the Global North.
• D. Scale and speed of flows account for the uniqueness of globalisation.

Hint:

Think of the volume and pace of flows today.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Split the debate in two.
One side says globalisation is nothing new. The other side says today's globalisation is different in kind. The question wants the second side.

Step 2: Test each option against that side.
An option fits the 'distinct' side only if it names something that is new about the present. An option that points to the past, or to a side effect, does not fit.

Step 3: Remove the old-process option.
Option 1 speaks about much of human history. That is a claim of continuity, so it fits the 'not new' side and is removed.

Step 4: Remove the unrelated options.
Option 2 comments on whether globalisation is only cultural, and option 3 comments on who gains or loses. Neither names a feature that makes the present phase new, so both are removed.

Step 5: Keep the match.
Option 4 says that scale and speed of flows make it unique. Faster and larger flows are the new feature of today's phase, so option 4 stays.

Final Answer:
Only option 4 names something new about the present, so it is the answer. \[ \boxed{\text{Option 4}} \]