The term globalization has become self-sustaining in recent years. It has turned into an abstraction and serves as a buzzword for both proponents and opponents of globalization. In light of the current financial crisis, one might understand globalization as a worldwide online game. However, this perspective obscures a clear view of the structure of the so-called real economy. The distribution of goods is by no means virtualized but is tied to locations that compete with one another. The differentiated production system promotes international division of labor, primarily driven by internationally active companies. Specific locations take on particular roles within the globalized world economic system: raw material supplier, component supplier, producer, assembly location, research.