Technology and the world economy: The case of the American hemisphere

We live in a complex international setting in which technology has an ever-growing influence on the world economy. The diffusion of technologies is one factor in the globalization of the marketplace which influences the transculturation process, resulting in shifts in national preferences, values, and aspirations. The progressive pluralism in international trade contrasts sharply with the growing bipolarity in the strategic and military affairs of the two superpowers, the United States and the Soviet Union. From a strictly economic standpoint, the heightened struggle between the two superpowers diverts resources that both countries could more usefully apply to the problems of their relationships with other countries. The development of the Latin American and Caribbean countries is affected by these continuously changing international influences. Many of the problems confronting our societies are linked to such international phenomena as the debt crises, which affects both debtors and creditors. Despite these problems, Latin American and Caribbean countries are engaging in greater international activity, and their policies and proposals are receiving more attention in hemispheric and global affairs. The region is heterogeneous and includes countries of varied complexity and history. Despite these differences, a basic solidarity is evident in their international actions, and the region is perceived by the rest of the world as a unified whole. This gives Latin America a particular capacity for action and negotiation that can be best used by setting joint and independent positions.