This system
of nation-based economies is rapidly evolving toward
a global economy. Computer, communication and
transportation technologies have lessened distance as
a barrier, making possible the coordination of
production and commerce on a global scale. Lowered
tariffs have reduced national frontiers as barriers
to commerce, facilitating transnational production
and distribution. Corporations are globalizing not
only to reduce production costs, but also to expand
markets, evade taxes, acquire knowledge and
resources, and protect themselves against currency
fluctuations and other risks. As
