# An Alternative Globalization Barometer for Investigating the Trend of Globalization
## 2 Materials and Methods
### Compilation Framework of the Globalization Index  
A clear and universally recognized definition of globalization is necessary for compiling a globalization index. Based on emblematic articles in the field of globalization, including [PERSON] [27; 28], [PERSON] [29], and [PERSON] [30], globalization is defined as the global increase in connection, interdependence, and convergence of all economies in the economic, social, and political fields. In this work, we define globalization in three sub-dimensions: Economic globalization is reflected in the cross-border flows of products and services and the allocation of production factors on a global scale. Social globalization covers the migration of people and the transmission of information, accompanied by the convergence of cultures and exchanges in science and technology. Political globalization denotes intergovernmental cooperation and collaboration within the framework of international organizations. Existing globalization indices have provided an adequate structure to quantify the level of globalization. Following [PERSON] et al. [22], we introduce two dimensions, namely, _de facto_ and _de jure_ globalization. _De facto_ globalization refers to the extent to which a country's participation in globalization has been achieved, while _de jure_ globalization is defined as the decisions, policies, institutions, and other proactive factors that the country has put in place to make its participation in globalization more possible. Based on prior indices, our index also made several adjustments and improvements as described below. 1. We measured political globalization more broadly. As an expansion of existing indices [22; 23; 24], the political dimension is determined by two sub-dimensions: International cooperation and global governance. International cooperation measures the degree of intergovernmental coordination and communication, while global gov  
Figure 1: Methodology procedures. errance evaluates the participation level of each government in the framework of international organizations. Of note, this paper differs from existing indices in the identification of international organizations. Existing indices mostly use all inter-governmental organizations (IGOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). This approach assumes that all IGOs and NGOs contribute equally to the process of globalization, neglecting the individual difference in capacity. In our context, the international organization mainly refers to the UN and its affiliated institutions, since we propose that UN plays a crucial role in the formation of modern globalization and thus should lay emphasis on its work. 2. We measured social globalization more impartially. Indicators, such as McDonald's restaurants and IKEA stores, have long been criticized for measuring Americanization or Westernization rather than cultural globalization, as pointed out in the founding paper of the KOF index [22]. Accordingly, we removed these indicators and used trade in printed goods and international trademarks instead to evaluate _de facto_ cultural globalization. Another adjustment reflects in the inclusion of decentralized indicators. Some new indicators, such as the language popularity index, are added to our index system. Rather than measuring the average proficiency of English in a given country, the language popularity index measures the number of foreign nationals speaking the majority language of that country (the most spoken language among all official languages of that country) as a percentage of those speaking that language worldwide. Language functions as the medium of culture [31], opens more possibilities for cultural transmission and exchange, and thus could be included in cultural globalization. Additionally, the social tolerance index, which refers to the extent of recognition and acceptance of differences, and willingness to grant equal rights [32], was included to address the importance of mutual respect and appreciation of different cultures. 3.