The theory of a Global civilization emerged in the late 20th century. As parts of the world, especially the West, move toward economic and political unity, the idea of a united Earth has been initiated. Organizations such as the European Union and the South American Community of Nations are examples of such a movement.

Other factors include

• international trade and business, international aid, and westernization.
• The liberties of Democracy, as an increasingly widespread instrument that makes people nearer to each other, but also as a global objective democratic globalization).
• Also the Internet, an important tool for worldwide contact among people and for spreading global information.
• Not to neglect the importance given to World peace after centuries of settling issues through warfare.

In reaction to this open world, opposite factors exist also, often based on fear of other people or of evolutions, which drive some people to isolate themselves in geographical or ethnic communities or in sectarian shools of thought.