Transnational migration and the creation of transnational social spaces is not a new phenomenon as such. It has existed long time before it has become a fashionable desired study subject. However, when globalization took off in the 1980s, transnational ties have changed quantitatively as well as qualitatively, and thus the topic has gained in importance. Various revolutionary technical innovations facilitated to maintain transnational contact between country of origin and the new destination on an instantaneous basis. Currently hence, such ties can be as intense as ever.
The new thing about transnational migration is rather – in compliance with Glick Schiller – that scholars provided the social sciences “with a vocabulary and a framework to analyze the way in which migrants and their descendants participate in familial, social, economic, religious, political, and cultural processes that extend across the borders of nation-states” enabling scholars to “conceptualize simultaneity, the ways in which individuals settle into a new locality and also maintain various kinds of social relationships that extend into other nation-states (2006, p. 8).
Table of Contents
- Transnational Migration
- Transnational migration and transnational social spaces
- Transnational migration before the 1980s
- Example: Chinese guanxi
- Transnational migration since the 1980s
Objectives and Key Themes
The objective of this paper is to analyze whether transnational migration and the formation of transnational social spaces are new phenomena, considering the impact of globalization. The analysis uses a literature review approach, examining arguments for and against the novelty of transnational migration patterns.
- The definition and characteristics of transnational migration and social spaces.
- Historical perspectives on transnational migration before the 1980s.
- The role of globalization in shaping contemporary transnational migration.
- The impact of technological advancements on transnational connections.
- Examples of long-standing transnational networks and communities.
Chapter Summaries
Transnational Migration: This introductory section establishes the research question: Is transnational migration a new phenomenon? It highlights the ongoing debate among scholars, with some viewing it as a recent development and others emphasizing its historical existence. The author intends to analyze this debate through a literature review, focusing on the relationship between globalization and transnational migration, and using the 1980s as a "parting line" to differentiate between "traditional" and transnational migration patterns.
Transnational migration and transnational social spaces: This section defines transnational migration as the movement of people back and forth between their country of origin and destination, maintaining connections and creating transnational identities. It introduces the concept of transnational social spaces, defined by Faist as sustained ties across borders, linking cultural practices and economic activities in origin and destination regions. The section also notes the four types of transnational social spaces identified by Faist: small groups, issue networks, transnational communities, and transnational organizations. Finally, it acknowledges the contested nature of the term "transnational" itself.
Transnational migration before the 1980s: This section argues against the idea that transnational migration is solely a recent phenomenon. It cites scholars who highlight the existence of transnational connections among immigrants, religious authorities, and political organizations long before the 1980s, referencing examples like the mass migrations of the early 20th century. While acknowledging that movement was more restricted due to technical and financial limitations, the section emphasizes that contacts and networks existed across time and space, facilitated by factors such as kinship and friendship ties. The role of the "new economics of migration" in maintaining regular contact between migrants and their home countries is also discussed.
Example: Chinese guanxi: This section provides a specific example of long-term transnational migration and the creation of transnational social spaces: the Chinese diaspora. It focuses on "guanxi," a concept of relationship networks crucial to Chinese business practices and social interactions. This example illustrates how Chinese migrants have maintained connections with their homeland and with fellow Chinese globally, creating an extensive network system over a long period, dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Transnational migration since the 1980s: This section explores how globalization has significantly altered transnational migration patterns since the 1980s. Advancements in technology, communication, and transportation have drastically increased the quantity and quality of transnational ties, allowing for more frequent and easier movement back and forth between countries. Cheaper and faster communication and transportation methods have made maintaining relationships and participating in transnational social spaces considerably easier, influencing the increased scholarly interest in the subject. The section also acknowledges the lack of a universally agreed-upon definition of globalization and its various interpretations.
Keywords
Transnational migration, transnational social spaces, globalization, migration networks, technology, communication, diaspora, Chinese guanxi, new economics of migration, historical migration patterns.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Language Preview
What is the main research question addressed in this preview?
The central research question explores whether transnational migration and the formation of transnational social spaces are genuinely new phenomena, particularly considering the impact of globalization. The analysis examines arguments for and against the novelty of these patterns.
What is the methodology used in this analysis?
The analysis employs a literature review approach, examining existing arguments and evidence from scholarly sources to assess the historical context and contemporary understanding of transnational migration.
What are the key themes explored in the preview?
Key themes include the definition and characteristics of transnational migration and social spaces; historical perspectives on transnational migration before and after the 1980s; the role of globalization and technological advancements in shaping contemporary transnational migration; and examples of long-standing transnational networks and communities (e.g., the Chinese diaspora and guanxi).
How does the preview define transnational migration?
Transnational migration is defined as the movement of people back and forth between their country of origin and destination, while maintaining connections and creating transnational identities. It involves sustained ties across borders, linking cultural practices and economic activities in both origin and destination regions.
What are transnational social spaces, and what types are identified?
Transnational social spaces, as defined by Faist, are sustained ties across borders. The preview identifies four types: small groups, issue networks, transnational communities, and transnational organizations.
Does the preview argue that transnational migration is a recent phenomenon?
No. The preview challenges the notion that transnational migration is solely a recent phenomenon. It presents evidence of transnational connections long before the 1980s, emphasizing the existence of networks and interactions across time and space, even with limitations in technology and finance.
What is the significance of the 1980s in the analysis?
The 1980s serve as a dividing line in the analysis to differentiate between what might be considered "traditional" migration patterns and the intensified and altered patterns influenced by globalization and technological advancements.
How does the preview discuss the role of globalization?
The preview argues that globalization, with its advancements in technology, communication, and transportation, has significantly altered transnational migration patterns since the 1980s, increasing the quantity and quality of transnational ties.
What example is used to illustrate long-term transnational migration and social spaces?
The Chinese diaspora and the concept of "guanxi" (relationship networks) are used as a case study to illustrate the long-standing existence of transnational networks and social spaces, dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries.
What are some key keywords associated with this topic?
Key keywords include: Transnational migration, transnational social spaces, globalization, migration networks, technology, communication, diaspora, Chinese guanxi, new economics of migration, and historical migration patterns.
- Quote paper
- Natalie Züfle (Author), 2008, Is transnational migration a new phenomenon?, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/180092
