[ctdonath]

Nay, a huge role. People who were far outside major economic activity can now participate in global markets, improving their ability to sell goods & services (and obtain tools & connections).

A few days ago I ordered & received a cheap scarf via mail. US$0.95 - delivered! from China! obviously whoever was involved didn't make much off the transaction, yet they WERE able to make & sell & deliver something to an idiot on the other side of the planet. Where there was no market before, Amazon & USPS & other businesses have pursued "globalization" to the point that a manufacturer & buyer a world apart could engage in profitable transactions.

The way out of poverty is capitalism, sellers & buyers making mutually profitable agreements, and globalization eliminating barriers of distance & borders.