Final answer:
The concept of a "flat" world refers to the reduction in economic and cultural barriers brought on by globalization, thus creating a more level playing field for businesses and workers around the world. It stems from the advanced technologies that connect markets and allow for business operations to extend internationally, as discussed in Thomas Friedman's 'The World Is Flat.'
Step-by-step explanation:
When we talk about the concept of a "flat" world, we're referring to the idea that globalization has 'leveled the playing field' for all participants in the global economy. This concept was popularized by Thomas Friedman in his book 'The World Is Flat,' where he discusses how advances in technology, such as personal computing and high-speed Internet, have changed core economic operations.
These advances have enabled companies in developed countries to outsource jobs to call centers in nations like China and India, signaling a major shift in global work dynamics.
Flattening of the world doesn't imply that employees suppress negative emotions or that a new conservative approach to investment has emerged. Instead, it indicates that businesses and economies around the world are experiencing changes due to globalization. This includes everything from the organizational structures of companies to the way nations perceive and interact with each other in the marketplace.
A flatter world can empower emerging economies and transform cultural and societal norms, while also creating competition between different labor markets and raising concerns about issues such as wage degradation, environmental protection, and job security.
Therefore the correct answer is 4) Globalization has leveled the playing field for emerging economies.