Final answer:
The belief that McDonald's contributes to global cultural homogenization is an example of globalization, specifically described as the McDonaldization of society, which emphasizes uniformity and standardization across cultures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The belief that McDonald's perpetuates the cultural homogenization of the world is an example of globalization and, more specifically, the phenomenon of the McDonaldization of society. This concept, introduced by sociologist George Ritzer, speaks to how the fast-food business model, characterized by principles like efficiency, predictability, calculability, and control, extends beyond the food industry into various areas of society, including government, education, and even personal relationships. The ubiquitous presence of McDonald's around the globe symbolizes a shift towards uniformity and standardization of cultural products, which some fear could lead to the diminishment of local cultures and a homogenized global culture dominated by Western corporate capitalism.
While the effects of McDonaldization can be seen as positive in terms of efficient service and predictability of products, there is concern about the impact on cultural diversity and the push towards uniformity. This trend towards a standardized culture is often criticized for its potential to stifle individual creativity and uniqueness. On the other hand, efforts such as farmers markets and microbreweries represent a trend towards de-McDonaldization, where individuality and diversity are being appealed to and preserved in the marketplace.