Rachel Hoon 2020

O'LEVEL SOCIAL STUDIES

Pg 1-18 → SRQ Content
Pg 19-22 → Examples

ISSUE 1: What does it mean to be a citizen?

Chapter 1
● Citizenship shaped by legal status
● Citizenship shaped by identity and participation

Chapter 2: Challenges in Deciding What is Good for Society

1 - Differing needs and interests

Within a society, different people have different needs and interests and this leads to people
disagreeing on what is more important to the society.
A society can probably agree on basic needs such as the need for clothing, food, shelter.
However, a diverse society may not be able to agree on common interests and what is
important for a happy or fulfilling life.
EXAMPLE: When the decision was made to drill through the Central Catchment Reserve while
constructing the Cross-Island Line, there was much debate between the camps for and against
it.
- Nature groups opposed it as the construction would negatively impact the environment.
- Working-class people, especially those who had to commute from other parts of
Singapore to the Central Business District supported the move as it would benefit them.
EXPLAIN: As society only has limited resources, it would be impossible to meet everyone’s
needs and interests fully. As such, decisions on how the resources should be used would need
to be made.

2 - Differing priorities
Citizens of a country may agree that it is important for the country to provide affordable
healthcare, good education, and a clean environment. However, citizens may disagree on what
area the government should prioritise.
EXAMPLE: For instance, a survey ran from 1 Dec 2012 to 31 Jan 2013 interviewing at least
4,000 Singaporeans, recording down their responses as to how the governments should
prioritise them, differed by income groups.
■ Those whose monthly salaries exceeded $5,000 placed public healthcare as most important.
■ Those whose monthly salaries were below $5,000 placed public housing as most important.
EXPLAIN: As such, due to society’s diversity, people may rank different areas that they feel the
government should focus on differently, leading to a difference in priority. Given the limited
resources in society, the government has to decide which priorities are more important.
However it will be difficult to meet all demands of the society.

3 - Unequal sharing of costs

POINT: While an infrastructural development may be beneficial for all members of society, some
parties may have to give up more in return than others.
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EXAMPLE: The construction of the Thomson Line for Singapore’s Mass Rapid Transit system is
beneficial for the majority of Singaporeans. However, some have to bear greater burdens than
others. Residents of Marine Parade would have to bear with the noise and give up parts of their
land for the construction of the MRT line.
EXPLAIN: Therefore, even though everyone benefits in the end, some people have had to
sacrifice more than others.
NIMBY Syndrome: While all residents living near such public facilities believe that such
developments are needed, they also believe that they should not be built near their homes.
However, Singapore has limited land, hence it is inevitable that such facilities will be built near
where some people live.

Chapter 2.3 – Ideas Shaping Governance

1. Having good leadership
2. Anticipating changes and staying relevant
3. Providing a stake for everyone
4. Practising meritocracy

1 – Having Good Leadership

POINT: Leaders who are honest, capable, of good morale and incorruptible. They make
decisions for the good of the country rather than for personal interests.
EXAMPLE: Mr. Peter Ong, head of Civil Service promised to build closer relationships among
Singaporeans and public officers, bringing people together and building a better home.
EXPLAIN: Good leaders are less corrupted so this will result in them gaining the trust and
confidence of the people. People would feel that their leaders are rightful ones and would
ensure the country’s development. Should leaders be dishonest, they will be dealt with by the
law.

2 – Anticipating Changes and Staying Relevant

POINT: Realises problems that may arise in the future and identifies potential solutions to meet
and solve problems. The government makes decisions that will benefit the people of Singapore
in the future.
EXAMPLE: In 2005, the government decided to build two integrated resorts (IRs) at Marina Bay
Singapore. The government anticipated changes and stayed relevant in seeking economic
benefits. They were also aware that there could be social consequences such as higher
gambling rates and hence set up the National Council of Problem Gambling.
EXPLAIN: Allows Singapore to be prepared, so Singapore faces fewer negative impacts when
the problem arises.

3 – Providing a Stake for Everyone

POINT: Allow citizens to have a say in the decisions of Singapore, developing a greater sense
of belonging.
EXAMPLE: 1) Public Housing Scheme (PHS) enables Singaporeans to own their homes
through the provision of housing grants. (A couple who applies for public housing for the first
time is eligible for the Special Central Provident Fund (CPF) Housing Grant.) Ownership builds
up a sense of belonging.
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2) The REACH government feedback system was first set up in 1985 and had the aim of giving
citizens a chance to discuss the country's issues. With this feedback system in place, citizens
will realise that their concerns and views are indeed heard by the government, with the
government actively responding to some of their concerns in subsequent drafting of bills.
EXPLAIN: Make citizens feel their opinion matters and that they have a stake in Singapore's
future. Active participation results in an increase in the effort to contribute to society. The
government will hence be sure of what the public wants and thus can make better decisions.
*Citizens would feel a greater sense of belonging due to the higher stake as they will all have
something to defend.

4 – Practising Meritocracy
POINT: System in which people are rewarded according to how much effort they put in.
EXAMPLE: Students who perform well in their studies and CCAs are rewarded in ways to help
them excel further in their education. Awards such as the Edusave Scholarship and Merit
Bursary schemes reward the students based on the hard work students have put in.
EXPLAIN: Everyone is equal and has a chance to succeed. People are not judged based on
their race, religion or socio-economic background but by their abilities and the amount of hard
work they put in. The effort to improve society increases.
*Would encourage Singaporeans to continue to work hard as they would be rewarded as long
as they work hard regardless of status —> contribute to society as meaningful citizens.
*Would ensure Singaporeans have good leaders that are chosen based on their abilities.

Chapter 3: Working for the Good of Society

Chapter 3.1: Roles of the Government

● Maintaining internal order and external security
● Ensuring justice
● Providing goods and services for the public
● Safeguarding the interests of citizens

1 – Maintaining Internal Order and External Security

POINT: Agencies such as police, prisons and civil defence protects the citizens, property and
whatever society believes should be protected.
EXAMPLE: Internal- Singapore Police Force (SPF) protects the people who live in Singapore
from crime and all manner of criminal harm. Includes terrorism and public disposer.
External- Singapore Army deters aggression, and should deterrence fail, secure a swift and
decisive victory. Ready and capable to defend security interests and the sovereignty of
Singapore.
EXPLAIN: Singapore’s defence is strengthened and potential enemies are deterred from
attacking Singapore. Peace in society is maintained.

2 – Ensuring Justice
POINT: The Judiciary interprets and applies laws passed by the legislature.
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EXAMPLE: Family Justice Court provides Personal Protection Order (PPO) for an individual if
family violence has or is likely to be committed.
EXPLAIN: Singaporeans have confidence that the courts will judge them fairly and protect
them.

3 – Providing Goods and Services

POINT: Significant resources are devoted to improving the well-being of citizens. Goods and
services are provided or subsided by the government to ensure all citizens have access to
them.
EXAMPLE: Public transportation in Singapore, such as the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system.
Comprises a dense transport network consisting of six major lines (as of 2019).
EXPLAIN: Allows more connections and better services. The public enjoys benefits from the
provision of such goods and services.

4 – Safeguarding the Interests of Citizens

POINT: Government implements legislation that safeguards the interests of citizens in various
ways.
EXAMPLE: Central Provident Fund (CPF) scheme helps Singaporeans prepare for retirement.
It enables them to finance their housing and healthcare needs and have a source of lifelong
income in retirement.
EXPLAIN: Ensures that citizens would have a sense of security living in the country.

Chapter 3.2: Role of Citizens

● Individuals
● Informal Organised Groups
● Formal Organised Groups

1 – Role of Individuals
POINT: A single person working for a particular cause through volunteering their own time,
efforts and resources. They do so usually because they feel that their actions will be helpful and
they feel strongly for the cause which they contribute towards.
EXAMPLE: “A Litter at a Time” programme was started by Ms Elisa Ng in 2013 to encourage
citizens to pick up a piece of litter a day for a cleaner society.
EXPLAIN: It addresses a specific issue the person has identified. The actions of individuals can
benefit many people directly and inspire others to make such improvements as well.

2 – Role of Informal Organised Groups

POINT: Informal groups are organisations with a specific, short term objective related to issues
that arise suddenly. These groups are temporarily formed and may not be registered.
EXAMPLE: During the 2013 haze in Singapore, “SG Haze Rescue” was formed by Mr Jeremy
Chua which asked people to help donate and give out their excess masks.
EXPLAIN: Fills in any gaps for a sudden situation, complementing government efforts.
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3 – Role of Formal Organised Groups

POINT: Formally registered with the government. These groups have clear objectives and
address a wide range of interests. Cater to the needs of specific groups in society.
EXAMPLE: Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and Voluntary Welfare Organisations
(VWOs). “Mercy Relief” was established to respond to human tragedies in Asia, serve the less
fortunate and needy regardless of country, culture or creed.
EXPLAIN: Complement the role of government in working for the good of society.

Individuals VS NGOs:
NGOs have a bigger influence in doing good. Both individuals and organised groups definitely
contribute greatly to society, but organised groups mean collective efforts by a group of people
who are deeply passionate towards the area they are contributing to, and hence, they would
have more manpower and dedicated members who are able to reach a wider audience and gain
more support. Individuals might be hampered due to their limitations in resources, and be
unable to reach out to a larger mass of people and receive sufficient support for their cause.

Chapter 3.3: Influencing government decisions

- Allowed Singaporean’s to have a say in decisions and plans made for Singapore.
- Help Singaporeans to develop care for society, instilling a sense of belonging.

1 – Individuals
POINT: Feedback and suggestions from Singaporeans will influence the decisions made and
plans for Singapore.
EXAMPLE: In 2012, a national level conversation known as “Our Singaporean Conversation”
(OSC) where citizens can come together to share their views and ideas about the future of
Singapore was held. It enables conversations between citizens as well as the government.
EXPLAIN: Through the OSC, the government learnt more about Singaporean’s aspirations, and
Singaporeans also learnt more about each other’s hopes for the future. Their ideas have helped
chart future plans for Singapore.

2 – Organised groups
POINT: Organised groups can help refine government policies and point to areas that require
more attention.
EXAMPLE: Movement for the Intellectually Disabled of Singapore (MINDS) focuses on catering
to the needs of persons with intellectual disabilities. They help to ensure equal opportunities for
children with intellectual disabilities to receive education and to better integrate into society in
the future.
EXPLAIN: Improved and sustained the general well-being of society by recommending
improvements in certain specific areas.

Both citizens and the government play equally important parts in working for the good of society.
The good of society is when there is progress, opportunities for all, justice, and peace. The
government's role is to implement policies that ensure this, however it needs the cooperation and
support of the citizens in order for the policies to be effective. Furthermore, the government is not
all-knowing and all-powerful, thus citizens should work together with the government to close any
gaps.
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ISSUE 2: What is diversity?

Chapter 4.1 – Identity and Diversity

Identity
Nationality
Race and Ethnicity
Religion
Socio-Economic Status

4.1.1 – Nationality
POINT: Refers to the status of belonging to a particular nation. They usually share a common
history, common experiences and live together in a particular geographical area.
EXAMPLE: Singaporean, Brazilian, Chilean.
New Zealanders identify themselves as "Kiwis" and would watch the rugby games, their national
sport, when the national team the All Blacks play against other countries. They are also familiar
with the haka, a Maori warrior dance, which the All Blacks will always perform before the start of
each match.
EXPLAIN: People from the same country feel more comfortable with other members of the
same country as they can identify with the common experiences, attitudes and beliefs shared by
the citizens in their country.

4.1.2 – Race and Ethnicity

POINT: Race refers to the classification of people according to physical characteristics that are
biological in nature such as skin colour. Ethnicity refers to one’s ancestry, cultural practices,
language, customs, food and dressings that are associated with an ethnic group.
EXAMPLE: Chinese in Singapore have many different ethnicities, Hainanese, Hokkein, Hakka,
and each ethnicity has their own culture and practices.
EXPLAIN: The practices of the different communities one belongs to would shape their way of
life and their beliefs, hence influencing one's identity.

4.1.3 – Religion
POINT: An organised collection of attitudes, beliefs and practices. May be determined by choice
or birth.
EXAMPLE: Buddhism- promotes peace and harmony, believes that they must care for all living
things as they too equally deserve peace and happiness. Main goal to overcome suffering and
attain nirvana.
EXPLAIN: Believers share and keep the same set of core beliefs and practices regardless of
nationality and ethnicity. These beliefs and practices will affect the way we interact with others,
the choices we make, and our thinking. Our religion influences us in many ways and shapes our
identity.
Interreligious organisations can help to promote peace and religious harmony in Singapore.

4.1.4 – Social-Economic Status

POINT: An economic situation shared by a group of people determined by jobs, income,
education and wealth (this is a prevalent situation in Singapore).
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EXAMPLE: Low SES – do not possess much wealth, do not have enough money to support
themselves, work as blue collars, take up manual labour jobs that do not require many skills;
Middle SES – PMETs working in offices, white collar workers; High SES – investors, company
owners, access to better housing and lifestyles.
EXPLAIN: Social economic status shapes one’s life and identity by affecting the social circle
and choices of activities one can do with their economic capability.
Can result in income inequality when the income gap widens over time.

Chapter 5
Reasons for Greater Diversity
● Immigration Policy
● Economic Opportunities
● Socio-Cultural Environment

1 – Immigration Policy
POINT: Closely linked with and fitted to meet Singapore’s manpower needs.
EXAMPLE: Singapore maintains open-door policy in hiring foreign workers, Singapore
encourages skilled foreign labour to come to Singapore and support its economy.
EXPLAIN: Singapore's welcoming stance towards immigrants has encouraged more foreign
workers to come and work in Singapore. This in turns gives them an opportunity to settle down
and become a citizen, thus leading to greater diversity in Singapore.

2 – Economic Opportunities
POINT: Economic opportunities in Singapore often is the main reason attracting immigrants as
back in their home country economic opportunities may not be as good.
EXAMPLE: Multinational Corporations (MNCs) such as McDonald's, KFC and Burger King.
Global investors are attracted to Singapore with the ease of doing business, growth potential,
stable political environment, and well-established Judiciary system implying low corruption.
EXPLAIN: Singapore's stability and economic opportunities would attract foreigners to seek
employment and take residency here.

3 – Socio-Cultural Environment
This is split into 3 sub-factors which include the following:
A. Community Support
B. Safe Environment
C. Quality Education System

A) Community Support
POINT: Singapore is home to a range of ethnic communities and cultures from all over the
world. These communities or immigration support groups help foreigners feel more at home in
Singapore.
EXAMPLE: For the Korean community, there are large collections of Korean restaurants and
shops in Novena.
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EXPLAIN: Openness in Singapore implies that migrants would receive social and emotional
support, inculcating a sense of belonging in them. They would have a sense of familiarity living
in the country, and hence be more willing to come and stay in Singapore.

B) Safe Environment
POINT: Migrants consider safety and security when deciding on a country to work in. The
foreigners and their supporting communities will thrive in a safe environment.
EXAMPLE: There is a very low crime rate in Singapore and it has been declining since 2005
annually.
EXPLAIN: Migrants would feel safe in a secure environment and they would have their safety
guaranteed while living in the country.

C) Quality Education System

POINT: A high-quality education that offers high standards of certification and a wide range of
courses would attract migrants or their children to come to the country.
EXAMPLE: Singapore is a well-known hub for quality education. Universities are ranked highly
in the world and polytechnics offer a vast range of courses, making Singapore a well-known hub
for quality education.
EXPLAIN: Migrants would feel more secure with a good education system in Singapore, and
thus be more willing to come to Singapore.

Chapter 6.1 – Effects of living in a Diverse Society

1. People Interactions
2. Exchange of Skills and Knowledge
3. Positive and negative impacts.

1 – People Interactions
POINT: As societies become increasingly diverse, disagreements will happen, and interactions
need to be meaningful to strengthen harmony, increasing willingness to live together.
Harmony can be achieved by creating a common space which is a platform for shared values,
and common experiences to build a national identity.
EXAMPLE: The People’s Association (PA) serves as a bridge between the government and the
people promoting racial harmony and social cohesion through organising activities in community
centres (eg. sports as a universal bonding activity).
EXPLAIN: This provides opportunities for people of different backgrounds to come together,
interact and share common experiences, hence allowing them to understand each other better..

2 – Exchange of Skills and Knowledge

POINT: There can be collaboration and exchange in knowledge and skills in areas of research
and development with overseas experts.
EXAMPLE: the Biomedical Research Council (BMRC) under the Agency for Science,
Technology and Research (A*STAR). Internationally renowned scientists and companies with
expertise and knowledge help to jumpstart Singapore biomedical fields.
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EXPLAIN: Deeper understanding and appreciation can be developed from being open when we
share with and learn from others. When people are open to learning and sharing with others, we
would benefit from the enriching experiences that result from such interactions.

3 – Exchange and Appreciation of Culture:

POINT: Cultural exchanges can create distinct experiences due to diversity of nationality, races,
ethnicity, religions, etc. Our diverse society provides people with many opportunities to interact
with those who come from different countries or cultures.
EXAMPLE: Chef Willin Low has created a fusion between Singapore and modern European
dinings such as char siew pork burger and beef short ribs with rendang.
EXPLAIN: The exchange of ideas in terms of culture can lead to fusion between local cultures
and foreign ideas, and can be seen in areas such as food, fashion, music. New ideas are
created as a result, and will interest the different groups, hence allowing them to find common
grounds.

Chapter 6.2 – Challenges of living in a Diverse Society

Challenges of living in a Diverse Society:
1. Prejudice and Misconceptions
2. Competition of Resources
3. Concerns over Social Mobility

1 – Prejudice and Misconceptions

POINT: Negative sentiments can arise when people jump to conclusions about others and make
incorrect judgements due to insufficient understanding. Especially so due to differences in
cultural background.
EXAMPLE: Arabs and Muslim Americans became victims of hate crimes in America after the
9/11 attacks. These instances of discrimination have caused much hurt and inconvenience, and
will even deepen prejudice towards people of different races and religions.
EXPLAIN: Negative stereotypes happen when people have wrong generalised thoughts of
others. This is also known as prejudice. Prejudice will contribute to discrimination against the
victims.

2 – Competition of Resources
POINT: Singaporeans may be concerned about the competition in public transport, healthcare
resources and availability of public housing.
EXAMPLE: The government has come up with actions to mitigate the situation by expanding
the railway network, increasing public housing and the number of hospital beds.
EXPLAIN: Singaporeans may feel that foreigners are taking their jobs away. They think that
employers rather employ foreign workers than locals for a lesser pay demand.
EXAMPLE: Foreigners are tapping on Singapore’s funds and resources, one category being
jobs. Singaporeans blame the foreigners for taking away their jobs and feel that this influx leads
to congestion.
EXPLAIN: This leads to tensions between Singaporeans and foreigners. (refer to qn in pg 1)
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3 – Concerns over Social Mobility

POINT: Social mobility refers to the movement of individuals between different socio-economic
statuses. Income gaps between the lower and higher income group have increased over the
years.
EXAMPLE: Those in the lower-income group are affected when manufacturing companies shift
abroad for cheaper labour. The loss of jobs results in them being unable to progress up the
socio-economic level.
EXPLAIN: Singapore emphasises retraining and learning of new skills to stay relevant to
economic demands. It also upholds the principle of meritocracy contributes to the success of
Singapore when people understand that they are awarded based on their efforts and not other
biased reasons.

Chapter 7.1 – How can we respond in a Diverse Society

Responding in a Diverse Society: Assimilation and Integration

Chapter 7.1.1 – Assimilation

POINT: Immigrants are expected to adopt the beliefs and practices of the majority group in the
host country.
EXAMPLE: In France, the French believe in secularism and religion is separated from
governance so as to emphasize national identity.
Education – discussion of religion is disallowed except for Philosophy and History lessons in
school; adaptation classes are conducted for children immigrants to improve their French so
that they can eventually join French schools.
Naturalisation process – immigrants have to undergo French language courses and culture test.
POSITIVE IMPACT: Allows immigrants to become part of the majority group and fit in better.
Assimilation is effective in that it constructs a national identity, preventing any other religious
beliefs and ethnic customs from affecting the social stability in the society.
NEGATIVE IMPACT: Differences between locals and immigrants are less respected. Immigrants
would want to continue to live with their own religion openly but the country practising
assimilation would restrict them and this would cause conflicts and tension between the different
groups. (In 2003, the Sikhs in France marched in Paris in a demonstration against a planned
law to restrict the wearing of religious symbols in public school.) → SOCIAL UNREST

Chapter 7.1.2 – Integration

POINT: Immigrants are allowed to retain their unique identities while forging common ground
with the groups living in the host country.
EXAMPLE: In Singapore, integration is practised.
1) Policies → Bilingual policy is introduced in schools. English and one Mother Tongue
language are compulsory. Ensures that different ethnic groups can communicate;
President Council of Minority Rights (PCMR) to ensure that minority groups have
government representation;
Ethnic Integration Policy (EIP) ensures that there is a balanced ethnic mixture in HDB
estates. Prevents ethnic enclaves and encourages interaction and racial harmony;
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2) Naturalisation process → New immigrants have to go through a citizenship journey

before getting their IC and passport.
3) Common experiences → Opportunities are made to encourage and help immigrants to
get closer with the Singaporean society such as national service, creating a stronger
sense of national identity between both immigrants and locals;
Community support (common space) → activities are organised by PAP such as festive
celebrations or sporting activities at community centres.
POSITIVE IMPACT: Differences between people are respected and immigrants have a sense of
national identity while maintaining their unique identities. Integration not only is effective in
fostering racial harmony among the various ethnic groups, but it also strengthens social
cohesion in Singapore. Therefore, it is an effective way in maintaining social stability.
NEGATIVE IMPACT: Immigrants are blamed for competing jobs with locals, worsening traffic
conditions.

Overall, I feel that integration is more effective than assimilation. Integration encompasses the immigrants
preserving their own identity and integrating into the existing groups in the society, which I believe will aid
in ensuring social stability, as all groups would feel respected and learn to respect other groups as well.
Assimilation refers to the immigrants not being able to express any of their culture or religious beliefs in
public, which can very possibly lead to tension within the society. For example, in 2003, the Sikhs in
France marched in Paris in a demonstration against a planned law to restrict the wearing of religious
symbols in public schools. As countries become more diverse with globalisation, Assimilation can very
likely lead to social unrest as the immigrants would feel that they are being restricted and not respected,
while the French are unable to accept immigrants displaying their individual customs or beliefs.
Integration will ensure that differences between different groups of people are respected, strengthening
social cohesion and a sense of belonging to the country.

Chapter 7.2 – Management and Impact of Socio-Economic Diversity

1. Management and Impact of Socio-Economic Diversity
2. Market-based approach- USA
3. Shared responsibility approach- Singapore
4. Government-financed approach- Sweden

1 – Market-Based Approach: USA

POINT: The government gives citizens the freedom to decide on their standard of healthcare
within their budget. Allows the market to decide on the provision of services to meet the
healthcare needs.
EXAMPLE: In the United States of America (USA), policies such as Medicaid and Medicare are
provided to assist lower SES people and Obamacare for most Americans, allowing healthcare
to be more affordable.
BENEFIT: Lower SES people will not have to suffer from the burden of unaffordable healthcare
as they can select the healthcare services which they can afford. Higher SES people can
choose their higher standards of healthcare services without using the government’s funds.
Healthcare coverage improves.
NEGATIVE IMPACT: Insurance companies will suffer from huge losses and insurance prices will
rise. There will be a decrease in the quality of service of the lower-class wards as hospitals have
a high possibility of focusing on richer patients who can bring them more profit.
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2 – Shared Responsibility Approach: Singapore

POINT: The government provides basic healthcare services and it is partially subsidised by the
government. The remaining costs are paid individually, balancing personal responsibility and the
government’s role.
EXAMPLE: In Singapore, policies such as Medisave are created and people can choose their
preferred healthcare service at their own expenses from their CPF accounts with the
government subsidising part of the cost. This would allow Singaporeans to have fewer burdens
when it comes to medical expenses.
BENEFIT: Healthcare remains affordable for the lower-income groups due to the government’s
assistance. Citizens are encouraged to take responsibility for their own health, reducing the
government’s burden and frees up resources for them to spend on improving the quality of the
healthcare system.
NEGATIVE IMPACT: It is not easy to keep up with the growing demand for healthcare as more
funding and resources are needed especially for the ageing population. There will be a rise in
healthcare costs globally and it requires more government funding and cost-effective treatments
by hospitals.

3 – Government-Financed Approach: Sweden

POINT: Government believes that everyone across socio-economic status should have access
to healthcare services. The government provides substantial healthcare services to most of its
citizens and some healthcare are fully covered by the government.
EXAMPLE: In Sweden, all adults only need to pay 122 euros in a year for all their healthcare
visits included in their tax regardless of the type of visits.
BENEFIT: Able to meet the healthcare needs of the people since healthcare services are
accessible and affordable to people from different SES groups.
NEGATIVE IMPACT: The huge demand for resources leads to a lack of choices for treatment.
Insurance companies will be forced to provide coverage for the poor, creating a loss for them.
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ISSUE 3: Is it good to be part of a globalised world?

Chapter 8 – Living in a Globalised World

Driving Forces of Globalisation

1. Developments in Transportation
2. Growth of MNCs
3. Advancements in Technology

1 – Developments in Transportation
POINT: Improvements made in the size and speed of different modes of transportation and the
development of efficient and integrated transportation infrastructure leads to globalisation.
EXAMPLE: Singapore’s seaports and airports allow for the handling of 6700 flights per week,
and 140,000 vessels per year, allowing for more people and goods to move in and out of
Singapore.
EXPLAIN: Thus, more goods and people can be carried each trip and at far greater rates,
encouraging more people to travel and the exchange of goods. This results in people’s activities
being increasingly linked to the global world, allowing for greater interdependence globally.
POINT: The development of efficient and integrated transportation infrastructure.
EXAMPLE: The addition of the SG-KL high-speed rail leads to globalisation. With such railway
networks being established, there will be a more effective and higher connectivity between
Singapore and Malaysia, contributing to the interconnection between countries.
EXPLAIN: More goods and services can be carried each trip, leading to savings in transport.
This encourages individuals to travel and exchange more often.

2 – Growth of MNCs
POINT: MNCs refer to multinational corporations, with economic activities in more than one
country to pursue international interests.
EXAMPLE: Local MNCs (i.e. Singapore Airlines) go abroad. This created interconnections and
interdependent relationships between economic activities in Singapore and around the world.
MNCs such as Starbucks have chains in more than 65 countries.
EXPLAIN: The establishment of MNCs in different countries has increased the economic
activities and connections between people and goods throughout the world. They facilitate the
exchange of ideas between countries, thus leading to globalisation.

3 – Advancements in Technology
POINT: Advancements in technology resulted in greater access to the Internet and increased
use of mobile communications.
EXAMPLE: People can gain access to a vast amount of information such as via Google, which
allows for easy exchange of information and ideas. The increasing convenience for
communication makes it more convenient for people to communicate all around the world.
EXPLAIN: As more people from different parts of the world come together to interact due to the
convenience of technology in today’s age, people and ideas become interconnected, leading to
globalisation.
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Chapter 9
Tensions arising from the Economic Impacts of Globalisation
1. Impacts on Countries (economic growth, economic downturn)
2. Impacts on Companies (higher profits/market share, lower profits/market share)
3. Impacts on Individuals (higher income, lower-income)

Positive Negative

Countries - Economic growth due to - Easily affected by

tourism, trade, fluctuations in other
investments. countries’ economies.

Companies - Larger market shares due - Increased competition.

to expanding overseas. - Affect local SMEs who
- Increased profits due to might not have enough
cheaper labour and resources to keep up with
resources MNCs.

Individuals - Increased income/wages - Lower income due to

(i.e. more job choices competition.
overseas, better benefits). - The sudden closure of the
company due to global
economic fluctuations will
result in the loss of jobs.

1 – Impacts on Countries
POSITIVE: Leads to economic growth. Due to increased trading and expansion of businesses
in different parts of the world.
EXAMPLE: Singapore and the USA signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in 2004 which
included the trading of electronics and information technology, petrochemicals, chemicals and
textile industries.
EXPLAIN: This results in a greater variety of goods and services for consumption, increased tax
revenue and employment opportunities, strengthening the country’s economy, leading to
diversification of economic activities.
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NEGATIVE: The rise and fall of economies are closely tied to trade and investments between
countries. Especially if one country faces a downturn, many other countries would be negatively
impacted as well.
EXAMPLE: An example of how the recession in one country can lead to a domino effect in
others is during the Global Financial Crisis in 2008 in which the bankruptcy of US-owned
Lehman Brothers escalated to a global recession due to the US’ large role in international
economies. Many international banks were forced to close because their income was derived
from investments in the US.
Rachel Hoon 2020

EXPLAIN: As a result of globalisation, economic downturns that may have previously only been
limited to certain countries would now affect other countries as well.

2 – Impacts on Companies (MNCs)

POSITIVE: Larger market shares can be attained by companies due to globalisation.
EXAMPLE: Singaporean companies such as CapitaLand have set up operations in other
countries so as to maximise market outreach. In particular, CapitaLand is present in over 20
countries, increasing its consumer pool.
EXPLAIN: As a result of globalisation, companies would have access to more customers, and
hence they would be able to sell more products and earn a larger amount of profit.
———
POSITIVE: Higher profits can also be attained due to globalisation.
EXAMPLE: Labour costs may be lower in another country, and globalisation will allow the
company to move its production facilities offshore. For example, iPhone, an American company,
has its production facility in Shenzhen China as China has exceedingly low labour costs
compared to Western countries.
EXPLAIN: This thus allows them to earn a larger profit as they can minimise the cost of
production.
——————————
NEGATIVE: Due to globalisation, there will be increased competition with the introduction of
more companies specialising in the same area.
EXAMPLE: One example is Nokia. After the release of the iPhone by Apple, Nokia’s previously
majority market share in the mobile phone industry had dropped and eventually, they were
forced to close down due to their tanking profit.
EXPLAIN: To remain successful, a company has to continually innovate. If they are able to keep
up with the changes and remain relevant, they would fall behind and be eliminated as a result of
globalisation.
*usually companies that would be unable to keep up are SMEs as they have limited resources
as compared to MNCs

2 – Impacts on Companies (SMEs)

POSITIVE: Globalisation benefits MNCs which will, in turn, support the SMEs as SMEs support
MNCs by providing components, goods and services to MNCs for their operations.
EXAMPLE: MMI Holdings is a local SME that supplies hard drive discs to the US-based
Seagate Technology, a large MNC.
EXPLAIN: The economic impacts of globalisation bring about business opportunities for SMEs
as they are able to play a complementary role to the MNCs by selling the goods produced by
them to MNCs at higher prices, which ultimately leads to profit for the SMEs.
——————————
NEGATIVE: Entry of foreign MNCs may threaten local SMEs as a result.
EXAMPLE: Globalisation has allowed more MNCs to set up shop in Singapore, which brings in
foreign competition to local SMEs. This has resulted in a competition that SMEs are incapable
of dealing with. For example, the local hardware chain Home-Fix had closed all retail stores in
Singapore.
Rachel Hoon 2020

EXPLAIN: With globalisation, more foreign MNCs will be set up locally, meaning that there will
be competition between SMEs and MNCs. To remain successful, a company has to continually
innovate and invest. However, SMEs may not have the funds required to do so as MNCs do,
hence the entry of MNCs means that they will be outcompeted and hence be forced to close
down.
SOLUTION: Incentives and subsidies offered by the Singapore Government will aid SMEs’
efforts to venture abroad and facilitates partnerships between SMEs and larger corporations.
Eg. Enterprise Development Grant (EDG) will help SMEs keep up with the increasing
competition.

SMEs VS MNCs
SMEs are able to respond more positively towards competition because they understand local
conditions and choose to offer goods and services which appeal to the locals. These allow
SMEs to have a stable consumer base in the local market and are able to make a decent profit
off their goods and services by being the sole supplier to a certain MNC.
MNCs are able to reach a wider global scale and push for further economic developments.

3 – Impacts on Individuals
POSITIVE: Globalisation results in greater mobility for an individual to move across the globe for
better job prospects and higher income.
EXAMPLE: NTU Engineers have been headhunted for a job in Dubai for thrice of Singapore’s
pay and a less demanding lifestyle.
EXPLAIN: Hence, globalisation allows people to pursue better opportunities and job prospects,
which is beneficial for them in terms of higher income and better living standards.
——————————
NEGATIVE: Loss in job opportunities due to the globalisation of companies may result in
increased competition for jobs all over the world
EXAMPLE: Uniqlo used to have operations in Shenzhen, China. When labour costs started
increasing there, it shut down its production and moved to Vietnam as there were cheaper
production costs.
EXPLAIN: Hence, people may lose their jobs due to increased competition or simply due to the
cost of labour being cheaper in another country as a result of globalisation.
SOLUTION: Singapore implemented SkillsFuture which is a national movement aimed to
provide Singaporeans with help to develop to their fullest potential and personal mastery of
skills throughout life.
Workfare Training Support Scheme helps to improve an individuals’ skill set, enabling them to
keep up with the constantly evolving industry or even seek better job prospects with their
renewed skills.
Rachel Hoon 2020

Chapter 10
Tensions arising from the Cultural Impacts of Globalisation
1. Cultural Homogenisation and Hybridisation in Entertainment
2. Cultural Homogenisation and Hybridisation in Food

1.1 – Cultural homogenisation in Entertainment

POINT: In which local cultures are displaced by foreign cultures, leading to some foreign
aspects dominating in local culture and possibly eroding it.
EXAMPLE: In Entertainment, due in part to the success of Hollywood films, the younger
generation of Singaporeans have flocked towards Western media in favour of traditional film/
and cultural performances.
The American film ‘Kung Fu Panda’ was released in China and was met with protest from the
Chinese because the movie was accused of creating an inaccurate portrayal of Chinese culture.
Protesters perceived the movie to have misrepresented the cultural icon of China, the panda,
and China’s martial arts, kung fu.
EXPLAIN: Dominance of foreign cultures would result in local cultures becoming more similar to
foreign cultures. Leads to the loss of local culture.

1.2 – Cultural Hybridisation in Entertainment

POINT: Foreign and local cultures are blended, resulting in unique combinations containing
elements from both cultures.
EXAMPLE: Salsa, which is a Latin American music genre that originated in New York, is a
mixture of foreign Afro-Caribbean musical influences and North American jazz and rock.
EXPLAIN: Cultural hybridisation in entertainment results in a whole new entertainment product,
which could lead to changes in local culture.
Positive: New entertainments are formed, greater diversity.

2.1 – Cultural Homogenisation in Food

POINT: Local food cultures become similar to foreign food cultures.
EXAMPLE: The presence and proliferation of fast food outlets like MacDonald’s reflect the
general acceptance of foreign cultural influences. In Singapore alone, there are over 120
restaurants, and McDonald’s has significantly changed the diets and food tastes of
Singaporeans, particularly the younger generations.
EXPLAIN: Over time, this could lead to local cultural dilution and loss as people start to favour
foreign food cultures over local food culture.
Positive: Can result in harmony among people due to them having a common ground.

2.2 – Cultural Hybridisation in Food

POINT: Foreign and local cultures are blended, resulting in unique combinations containing
elements from both cultures. This can lead to changes to the nature of local cultures.
EXAMPLE: MacDonalds introduced the Rendang Beef Burger to cater to the likes of locals in
Singapore. Rendang Beef, a local food combined with a burger, a western influence.
EXPLAIN: Cultural hybridisation of food would lead to a greater diversity of food choices
(positive), but it can result in dilution of our local food culture, causing it to experience a loss in
authenticity (negative).
Rachel Hoon 2020

THEREFORE important to instil an appreciation of local culture.

Homogenisation VS Hybridisation
Homogenisation has a greater impact. In hybridisation, aspects of the local culture are still
present in the newly created product. However, in Homogenisation, local culture is entirely
changed to be similar to that of foreign culture. This leads to the reduction of local culture.
Rachel Hoon 2020

QUESTIONS
These answers are NOT MODEL ANSWERS! So please do not study them and just take
them as examples!

Q: What are two reasons for the Government bringing more and more foreign workers into
Singapore? (8m)
Firstly, one main reason is the labour shortage of blue-collar workers.
Many local Singaporeans are unwilling to take up lower-end jobs either due to the low pay or considerably
less favourable working conditions. However, it is these jobs that build up Singapore as a society, and are
the driving force for future developments. Therefore, in order to fill up this lack of manpower in this sector,
the government has to turn to foreign workers. One example is construction workers who are responsible
for building most if not all infrastructures in Singapore. As of 2020, there are around 300,000 foreign
workers working as construction workers. Whether it is construction workers, domestic maids, factory
hands, cleaners or healthcare workers, a huge bulk of these essential jobs are formed by foreign workers.
As most Singaporeans tend to shun these blue-collar jobs, it is a given that Singapore cannot do without
foreign labour, and in fact, needs more workers in order to ensure Singapore can further progress.

Also, bringing in foreign workers into Singapore would mean introducing new skills and expertise into
Singapore so as to remain competitive. For example, in order to develop Singapore’s ICT and software
industries, highly specialised skills and knowledge is definitely needed. There may not be enough
Singapore citizens with these skills and experience to remain competitive on a global scale. Therefore,
there is a need for expertise and experience coming from other countries, which is why the government is
bringing more and more foreign workers.

Q: To what extent do you agree that foreigners have brought about more harm than good to
Singapore’s social fabric? Explain your answer. (10m)

I agree with this statement to a small extent (Do not do this. Make a firm stand straight away), as I believe
that the positive impacts brought by foreigners to Singapore’s society outweighs the negative impacts.

Definitely, foreigners have brought about some negative impacts to Singapore due to tensions arising. As
an immigrant society, Singapore is known as a welcoming society to foreigners. However, some
Singaporeans have grown uncomfortable with the inflow of foreigners. One main reason is due to the
increase of competition due to the foreigners. As foreigners enter Singapore's society, they would
naturally take up jobs in Singapore, reducing the number of spots for Singaporeans. Thus, many
Singaporeans would feel that their job security has been compromised as they would have to compete
with the immigrants. From a survey conducted in 2011, 73.2% of 1000 Singaporeans believe that job
opportunities will be reduced for local-born Singaporeans if we were to have more immigrants. 60% also
believe that the government attracted immigrants at the expense of local-born citizens. From the example,
we can tell that many Singaporeans feel that the immigrants have taken away opportunities from them. As
a result, tensions would arise in Singapore as Singaporeans start to feel unfair, which would affect
Singapore’s social fabric negatively.

However, foreigners have brought positive impacts to Singapore’s society as well. With the inflow of
foreigners stemming from different backgrounds, the exchange of ideas and knowledge occurs, which
serves to enrich Singapore as a diverse society. In terms of exchanging culture, Singapore’s society
provides one with many opportunities to interact and learn from those who hail from a different culture. As
such fusion of between local culture and foreign ideas can happen. One example is food, where the
Rachel Hoon 2020

creation of the soft shell chilli crab with squid ink is a fusion between Singaporean and modern European
dining. This provides more chances for our society to interact with other cultures. Other than cultural
ideas, the exchange of skills in industrial areas also occurs, such as when foreign scientists share their
expertise to strengthen research competencies in Singapore. This has led to significant discoveries made
in Singapore, such as the H1N1 flu vaccines. Evidently, the entrance of foreigners into Singapore’s
society has allowed Singapore to progress and advance, socially and even technologically, bringing
positive impacts to Singapore’s social fabric.

Overall, I feel that foreigners have done more good than harm for Singapore. Foreigners have brought a
lot of benefits with them. In fact, the negative social impacts they have caused is also due to
Singaporeans’ misconceptions and unhappiness with foreigners. For example, some Singaporeans are
unable to understand the foreigners’ culture and social norms, which has led to stereotyping and
discriminatory behaviour towards them. Therefore, rather than the foreigners being the only ones causing
harm to Singapore’s social fabric, Singaporeans play a part as well. In order to allow Singapore to
advance as a vibrant and diverse society, Singaporeans have to be more open to foreigners as well,
instead of bearing negative feelings towards them.

Q: Do you think Assimilation is a more effective way of ensuring social stability than integration?
Explain. (10m)
I do not think that Assimilation is a more effective way of ensuring social stability than integration.

Firstly, Assimilation is when immigrants are expected to adopt the beliefs and practices of the majority
group in the host country. This is meant to make the identity of the immigrants indistinguishable from the
majority group in aspects such as cultural beliefs and practices. One such country, France, utilises the
concept of assimilation, believing in secularism (passed in 1905) where they focus on shaping a French
identity that is not linked to any factors based on race, ethnicity, religion, and socio-economic status. For
example, naturalisation programmes are also arranged for immigrants in France, and since 1998, it has
become necessary for all immigrants to undergo French language courses, and attend a day of civic
education about life in France before they gain permanent residency. This will ensure the assimilation of
minority groups into secular French society. Assimilation functions in that it constructs a national identity,
preventing any other religious beliefs and ethnic customs from affecting the social stability in the society.
Thus, it is effective.

Integration on the other hand, is when immigrants retain their unique identities while forging common
ground with the other groups already living in the host country. Differences, whether in terms of cultural or
religious beliefs are recognised and respected, without any special rights granted to any particular racial,
ethnic or religious group. One such country that follows this concept is Singapore. In order to help
immigrants integrate, the Ethnic Integration Policy (EIP) was set in place to achieve a balanced ethnic mix
in HDB estates and to prevent the formation of ethnic enclaves. This provides HDB residents of different
races with opportunities to interact as neighbours. Integration not only is effective in fostering racial
harmony among the various ethnic groups, but it also strengthens social cohesion in Singapore.
Therefore, it is an effective way in maintaining social stability.

Overall, I feel that integration is more effective than assimilation. Integration encompasses the immigrants
preserving their own identity and integrating into the existing groups in the society, which I believe will aid
in ensuring social stability, as all groups would feel respected and learn to respect other groups as well.
Assimilation refers to the immigrants not being able to express any of their culture or religious beliefs in
public, which can very possibly lead to unhappiness within the society. For example, in 2003, the Sikhs in
France marched in Paris in a demonstration against a planned law to restrict the wearing of religious
Rachel Hoon 2020

symbols in public schools. As countries become more diverse with globalisation, Assimilation can very
likely lead to social unrest as the immigrants would feel that they are being restricted and not respected,
while the French are unable to accept immigrants displaying their customs or beliefs.

SBC:

1e) “The decision to implement the US travel ban is right.” Using sources in this case study,
explain how far you would agree with this statement.

Sources C and D agree that the implementation of the US travel ban was the right choice, while sources
A and B do not agree with the decision.

Firstly, Source C agrees with the statement. In Source C, it states “if some foreigners are inconvenienced
for the protection of the people of the United States, then it's obviously an acceptable trade-off”. This tells
us even though the travel ban would have negative impacts on many immigrants, implementing it would
mean protecting the security of America. Therefore in this source, we can infer that the travel ban is
justifiable and thus is the right decision.

Source D also agrees with the statement. Source D states that “numerous foreign-born individuals have
been convicted or implicated in terrorism-related crimes since September 11, 2001”, which tells us that
US have faced terrorism cases linked to foreigners. It is further mentioned that the “visa-insurance
process plays a crucial role in detecting individuals with terrorist ties and stopping them from entering the
United States”, which we can infer that in order to combat against possible cases of terrorism in America,
the travel ban is needed. Since protecting the country and its people is of utmost importance, this source
agrees that the travel ban is the right choice.

However, Source A does not agree with this statement. Source A is a cartoon depicting a flailing Donald
Trump trying to reach the Statue of Liberty, representing America and freedom. In between to protect the
Statue of Liberty from Donald Trump, is Lady Justice, representing the courts. The cartoon intends to
show how Donald Trump is infringing upon the American’s concept of liberty due to implementing the
travel ban, as well as show how the courts are putting in the effort to protest against the ban. This source
not only implies how Donald Trump’s actions are going against the idea of liberty, but also shows how
even the courts from different states in America are unsupportive as well. Therefore, Source A disagrees
that the travel ban was a good decision.

Source B also does not agree that the decision for the travel ban was right. It states that “expanding the
focus of law enforcement beyond people who are real threats would make Americans less safe by
diverting resources”. This tells us that the travel ban would not be helpful in ensuring the national; security
of America, as the resources could have been used in other more effective ways. Furthermore, the source
mentions that the travel ban would make “millions of illegal immigrants who don’t pose a threat live in fear
of deportation”. Not only is the travel ban not helpful, it also brings about negative social impacts. Thus,
this source shows that the implementation of the travel ban was the wrong choice.

Looking into Source C, I feel that it is reliable. The source features an interview by someone who “came
to United States from Cuba when he was 13 years old”. Despite the fact that the travel ban would affect
immigrants in America, he is supportive of the implementation of the travel ban as he feels that despite
the fact that foreigners would be affected, the travel ban would ensure the security of people in the United
States. Therefore, the travel ban is justified. Since the interviewee who came to the US as an immigrant
Rachel Hoon 2020

does not find the ban discriminatory against foreigners, and in fact even feels that it would be helpful in
improving the national security of America, he would be less objective. Therefore, his words are
believable, and hence the source is reliable in supporting the travel ban.

Overall, I disagree with the implementation of the travel ban. From contextual knowledge, this travel ban
would deny affected groups of people the right to travel and would cut off the immigrants or refugees who
are attempting to seek a better life in America. Furthermore, even permanent US residents who have
resided in US for years would be affected. While it is justifiable to have stricter controls over the border
and who enters the country in order to prevent terrorism, better measures could have been taken rather
than infringing on the freedom of those who are innocent or denying help to those who need it. Also, by
banning certain countries, it would give rise to the stigma that the people who come from those countries
are linked to terrorism. After reading the sources and the background information, I feel that the negative
impacts outweigh the benefits of implementing the travel ban, and hence I do not think it was the right
decision.

If y’all have made it here I would like to just wish everyone GOOD LUCK once again don’t
worry so much! You got this :))