Back to the Future: Globalization and Modernization in Costa Rica; How The Attitudes Among Costa Ricans in Response to the Current Transnational Social, Political, and Economic Issues Affecting the Nation Demonstrate the Struggle Between Traditional and Modern Views Toward Development

Abstract

This paper is an in-depth analysis of the coverage of the current social, political, and economic issues in Costa Rican and Central American newspapers and the specific attitudes and opinions that develop in response to the surrounding socio-political environment. In drawing on the theories of leading globalization, modernization and development scholars such as Arjun Appadurai, Marshall Berman, and Benjamin Barber, as well as current scholars on Costa Rican "exceptionalism," the following research examines the current socio-political situation in Costa Rica in order to demonstrate the complementary and contradictory nature of the relationship between Costa Rica's unique historic roots and the current events shaping the region. Lastly, the research analyzes how the attitudes of Costa Ricans reflect a sense of ambivalence and uncertainty regarding the impact these events may have on the future of the country's development.