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Globalization has been the driving force behind the world economy for the last 40 years. However, is its impact on the world still positive? Does it remain efficient? Helena Norberg-Hodge's answer to this question is a resounding "no." The pioneer of the local economy movement says globalization is behind the wealth gap, unemployment, destruction of communities, and environmental pollution, and it no longer works for the majority. Norberg-Hodge emphasizes how economic policy is the underlying driver of every part of our lives and explains how economic opening destroyed the small community of Ladakh in just 10 years after its millennia of history.

She also brings to light the dark side of globalization, its destructiveness and inefficiency, condemning the global financial system that creates phantom wealth based on debt along with the politicians and businesspeople who cannot see the world as it is. She highlights how now is the time to localize, with more people making the effort to leave behind discrimination, hate, and industrialization and find value in the little things.

Localization does not mean we should stop international trade, but that we must operate on the fundamental principles of diversity and connections to build a new economic system. Norberg-Hodge says globalization is a human creation, and therefore we can change it. Learn more about sustainable development beyond economy-focused values and a humane way of life in this lecture from Helena Norberg-Hodge, "The Return of the Ancient Future."