TCH 503 Christian Implications of Globalization
Faculty: Dr. Joanne Neal (Profile)
ABOUT THE COURSE
- What is the imperative for the worldwide Christian community to be aware of the processes of globalization in order to take action that is informed, intelligent, and intentional?
- What ethical responsibilities do Christians – both clergy and laity – have to bring their faith values to bear as consumers in a globalized market economy?
Using a combination of readings and the viewing of licensed copies of two films (Flow and Food Inc.), participants reflect on globalization as a reality of our contemporary world and of our global culture. On one hand, it has created many opportunities for business in local, national, and international markets, effectively allowing them to operate in countries where laws and cultural norms may be less stringent and wages lower than in Western nations. It has also created opportunities for positive change in the area of social justice. On the other hand, globalization poses challenges to business in relation to the ethical and nonexploitive uses of the natural environment, the Earth’s resources, working conditions, and the distribution of wealth. Unfortunately, these challenges have not always been met and the results for the environment and for human beings have at times been very negative, even disastrous. Thus, from a Christian standpoint, we are left to question the ethical legitimacy of some of the processes of globalization and our individual and collective responsibilities as consumers in a globalized market economy.