Apologizing for Globalization?

It is undisputed that the pillars of globalization are ‘local’ and ‘global,’ and the spread of American Evangelicalism is no exception. Within “American Evangelicals” Yates explains that Evangelical organizations and missions have established roots in countless countries, boosting the number of Evangelicals to 700 million worldwide.  Similar to the views of corporations like Coca-Cola and MTV, Evangelical groups are unabashed when it comes to their methods of operation and overall success–creating bonds of trust on local and global levels. These organizations are well aware that the local connection is necessary in order to affirm repour within the country while, at the same time, maintaining broader relations with donors. They openly admit that these organization involve just as much ‘market language’ as multinational corporations; in fact, they are active players within the market itself. So, if Yates asserts that these Evangelical organizations do in fact resemble modern American globalizers like McDonalds who use similar tactics, why should they act as “apologists for Western (American) modernity, even if unintentional?” (412). Although I was initially skeptical towards the motives of the Evangelical groups and their expanding influence, I would argue that this issue involves a certain level of choice. For example, hip-hop music is everywhere, yet other genres of music still exist and continue to thrive, meaning not all individuals listen to hip-hop. (This is a mild example, considering the fact that other situations are more forceful and less considerate of the preexisting cultural traditions or norms.) Similarly, American Evangelical mission groups travel around and present videos, deliver sermons and performances, hand out pamphlets, and create the image which they wish for people to see and be drawn to. Once again, an individual’s choice to accept this religion is not eliminated. Therefore, unless we enforce apologetic mandates for all multinational modern corporations, these Evangelical groups should not intentionally or unintentionally apologize for the modern structure of their organizations.