Globalization in question : why does engaged theory matter?

Responding to the contributors of this special issue, this essay is organized as a series of questions (and responses). These questions facilitate our selective engagement with critical themes raised by the contributors such as the significance of engaged globalization theory and critical reflexivity; the relationship between globalization capitalism, imperialism and colonialism; the global-local nexus; and the development of an integrated method of analysis. The article also offers a list of ‘core configurations of social activity’ as a point of departure for further critical reflection of the changing dynamics of globalization. Ultimately, the authors do not seek to construct a single integrated theory of globalization, but rather strive for a theory endowed with coherence and systematicity that recognizes the value of different concepts, emphases, and approaches that nurtures the development of theories (plural) of the global