Finding a Common Thread in CultureThe globalization of the American fast food industry has presented itself as a process of modern assimilation throughout the world. As the United States continues to dominate as a global economic power, there is not only a transition toward its social and cultural ideals, but also assimilation as it continues to shape the ideologies of local groups through the world. The correlation between economic expansion and the rise of American influence dates back to the early 20th century. At this time, the United States was an imperial power that viewed imperialism as a central aspect of the period of vast modernization. The latter gave rise to a concept called “national consciousness,” in which, instead of accepting the differences of others, the United States sought to assimilate everyone into a single nation through a common thread: culture. Although the United States itself is still establishing its own culture, this fragile new American culture has become dominant through the technological expansion of the modern era. As globalization ushers in a new period of modernization, traces of American imperialism resurface, no longer under the definition of assimilation, but in the context of McDonaldization, in American fast food companies. The United States' imperial heritage has two fold effects, creating a problematic relationship between culture and society. Since the 20th century, a sense of dominant and subordinate culture has emerged. Through its global influence in terms of political interactions, economic relations, and cultural ideals, American culture has become a dominant force throughout the world. Although American culture is new and composed of a... middle of paper ...... many places around the world. The slow erosion of culinary traditions in Chinese culture is just one example of this problem. When globalization becomes a source of imperialism, eroding historical cultural ties under the guise of modernization, the results are worrying. Combating the harmful effects of this globalization process will require a reassessment of what globalization is supposed to be about in the world. The concept of international integration must be implemented in all aspects of the global world, not just in terms of trade. Furthermore, there is a need to reevaluate the appreciation not only of dominant modern cultures, but also of local traditional cultures. Instead of finding a way to meet the norms of Americanization, we must attempt to create precedents for globalization by integrating greater cultural diversity in the face of global trends..