In The Economics of Globalization, A Labor View, AFLCIO leader Thomas Palley defines globalization as "a process of international integration of national
goods, financial, and labor markets. It is a process that is being
driven by firms through their competitive search for profits, and it is also
being driven by the process of market arbitrage which works to ensure
that the same goods sell for the same price no matter where they are
traded. In a sense, none of this is new, and globalization is just the logical
extension to the international economy of processes that have long
operated within our own domestic economy for over one hundred years."
http://www.aaas.org/spp/yearbook/2000/ch8.pdf
As with many other controversial issues of international importance, globalization presents both opportunities and challenges. Although the process of integration of markers and policies creates some new problems, it also offers the possibility of addressing old concerns and expanding the reach of resources needed to prevent crises to developing regions and people around the world.
Our next unit will examine the trends of globalization trhough the lenses of economic sustainability, international politics and human rights. Your term project will require exploring ONE specific aspect of globalization and it's impact on the economy and human rights and development in several areas of the world.
Directions:
I) Select a topic from the list below and actively read the article(s) provided. (In the areas where more than one article is indicated, the purpose of assigning multiple sources is to cover all of the components of your response. Don't be turned off from what looks like potentially "more work", as we will be working with the topics for several weeks, it is key that it be interesting to you.)
1) Technology and the Digital Divide:
http://www.globalization101.org/index.php?file=issue&pass1=subs&id=48
2) Music Piracy/ File Sharing http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/specials/1042_globalmusic/index.shtml (be sure to read the introduction and sections entitled "the global music machine" and "music piracy")3) World Health and Perscription Drugs
http://www.globalization101.org/index.php?file=issue&pass1=subs&id=102
And either:
a) http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/4885714.stm
OR
b) ONE article from the list at:
http://www.globalizationandhealth.com/articles/browse.asp
4) Environmental protection
Introduction: http://www.globalization101.org/issue/environment/
and ONE of the articles linked onto the "Are International Trade and Protection of the Environment Enemies" OR "International Environmental Problems and the Efforts to Solve Them" sections
5) Energy
Introduction: http://www.globalization101.org/index.php?file=issue&pass1=subs&id=326
and ONE of the sub topics listed on the index on the link above (Nuclear Power, Alternative Sources, Energy and the Environment or Energy and Development)
6) Labor / worker's rights:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/4331896.stm
AND EITHER
a) http://www.globalization101.org/index.php?file=issue&pass1=subs&id=27
OR
b) http://www.globalization101.org/index.php?file=news1&id=111 (emphasizes NAFTA)
7) Child Labor:
http://www.globalization101.org/index.php?file=issue&pass1=subs&id=462
7) Food quality and Genetic Modification (GMO's)
http://www.globalization101.org/index.php?file=issue&pass1=subs&id=105
II) Summarize the article by explaining the issue and how it relates to "globalization." Why is this considered an economic issue? According to the sources provided, what are the positive and negative implications of globalization on this particular issue/ problem? How is it impacting people in modern and developing regions in the world?
III) In your opinion, is the global scope of this problem/issue a source of hope or dispair for those most negatively affected by it? Explain your answer providing evidence and examples from the text.
4) pose two questions that would help you better understand the topic you selected
post or submit before class on monday, 250 word minimum (posted or on paper)
if you use additional resources, please list them in MLA format at the end of your work
Elizabeth Che - Block C
ReplyDeleteTopic: World Health and Prescription Drugs
As "The Economics of Globalization: A Labor View" by Thomas I. Palley describes, globalization as a process that is "being driven by firms through their competitive search for profits, and ... process of market arbitrage which works to ensure that the same goods sell for the same price no matter where they are traded." It is not a natural process which the people have control of. "Instead, globalization is being driven by the choices of businesses, governments, and international policymakers."
In relation, health is up to the government and international policymakers to decide. The article, "Costs and Benefits," describes the urgency for powerful countries to help the poor. Healthcare is not something that is affordable by all humans. The author compares the challenge of addressing international public health to global warming such that "improvements in global public health benefits everyone, the costs are often borne by individual countries, so there is less incentive by lesser-affected countries to make big investments." This means that countries who are less likely to do anything are those that are less affected even though participation in the movement will help everyone. However, the countries with the "biggest public health problems have the fewest resources to respond to them." In relation to globalization, health, being taken for granted, is up to the ruling powers to maintain and change. People are dependent on the aid of wealthier countries such as the United States, to pay sums in donation for third-world countries and other areas in need.
The article, "World Health Care Deficit Warning" by Imogen Foulkes of BBC News describes the stifling percentages of illnesses in poverty-struck areas like Africa. The continent of Africa has 24% of the world's disease with less than 3% of the world's health workers and less than 1% of the budget. Globalization notes that products will be equal in all areas ideally, however health care is as Foulkes states, "a very unequal business." In comparison, low income nations spend approximately $81 per person per year while the US spends $7,439 per person per year on health care. This deals with the economy being that money and services are needed for health to be obtained. As Foulkes continues, "the world is short of four million health workers, and 1.3 billion people lack even the most basic health care."
Positive aspects of health globalization is the $360 billion a year in economic gains to poor countries which will save eight million lives a year and saving millions from poverty. With globalization comes the knowledge and technology to develop better conditions and lifestyles. For example, vaccines, drugs, disease surveillance strategies, medical technology, and medical interventions will improve scientific, financial and cultural barriers. Being that money does not come without a price, the negative aspect is the need for other countries to act. The United States for example, may have to pay $20 billion a year towards health assistance. Reluctance is also a negative aspect in globalization, being that not everyone will have the same thought of caring for others and becoming unwilling to do more for the lack of their own benefit.
Yet, globalization will advance the world into a more advanced lifestyle, with hopes of better health. The focus of efforts is to bring more attention to the poorer countries and raise their standards while improving those of other countries. During this process, people in both modern and developing regions of the world will continue to experience health care in some form.
The global scope for world health is a source of hope for those most negatively affected by it. As the "Costs and Benefits" article noted, the $360billion per year to poor countries will help effected citizens. Malaria for example takes up 6 to 50% of economic productivity in various African nations and HIV/AIDS will reduce economic growth by 17% over the next 10 years, with the decline in spending money, such countries will need the additional money for taking care of their own needs and taking measures to improve their health statistics.
Two questions:
1. Do all countries participate in the donation of money? or only the ones who have a GDP + of a certain amount?
2. How is it ensured that the money donated will go to that specific cause (not used for other reasons) and how is it divided between recipients?
Justin Lefkowitz
ReplyDeleteC Block
MUSIC PIRACY
Globalization is a difficult definition to really grasp because there are so many different definitions to choose from. According to the United Nations Economic and Social Council, when globalization, in its economic context, it refers to the “reduction and removal of barriers between national borders in order to facilitate the flow of goods, capital, services and labor...although considerable barriers remain to the flow of labor.”
According to Globalization101, a premier website that analyzes globalization and its effects, globalization is “a process of interaction and integration among the people, companies, and governments of different nations, a process driven by international trade and investment and aided by information technology.” According to the site, this process has effects on not only the environment, but also on culture, political systems, economic development and prosperity, and on human physical well-being in societies around the world.
The Music Industry is one of the most globalized industries in the entire world. The industry has grown over the past five decades to an industry worth around thirty billion dollars. Music is so globalized because it is always growing and everyone from all around the world can access it through the internet, and other ways.
Currently, the music industry has been fighting quite the battle with internet-music piracy. People have been accessing the music market for free through peer-to-peer file sharing across the internet. NAPSTER was the first company to start the P2P file sharing phenomena that almost everyone in the world caught onto. Started by college student Shawn Fanning in 1999, NAPSTER has paved the way for decentralized peer-to-peer file-distribution programs.
Music piracy through P2P file-sharing isn’t the only thing that has been stopping the music industry from growing bigger than it already is. Music piracy through CD-R’s and CD-RW’s has also put the music industry to a steady halt. Instead of people going out and buying a CD of their favorite recording artists, all they have to do is buy a CD-R and get a copy from their friends.
According to the BBC article The Global Music Machine, CD-R’s have attained a worldwide market value of 4.3 billion dollars. CD-R piracy is worst in Latin America, Western Europe and North America, the three big areas when it comes to recording artists and labels.
Believe it or not, the music industry is not an easy place to make money in. Only 10% of the bands/singers who have recording deals make the big bucks. That means only 10 out of every 100 bands who are signed to record labels actual make money. The majority of performers who make CD’s don’t even make their money back from its release. The possibility of making a name for oneself in the music industry is a big negative, but the money made by the successful ten percent is a positive aspect.
Several nations have already figured out ways in which to profit off of the music industry, so that their economies could benefit. France has enforced a 3.5% tax on all concert box office sales. The revenue is used to support new artists, the export of music, and even the purchase of new equipment for artists. Other countries have also started focusing on local music, rather than international sensations. For example, radio stations in countries like France, Turkey, and the Netherlands have enforced a quota, dictating that 40% of the music on that station must be from their own country.
Music piracy is a force that must be stopped. This would be virtually impossible to do, considering the amount of people who pirate music worldwide. The global scope is a source of both despair and hope. Companies have been making a much lesser profit off of music, as a result of piracy, but in a global market like this, different countries have been creating different ways around the problems of the music industry, to make the same gain as before.
Two Questions:
1 What has the RIAA done to help put a stop to pirated music of America?
2 Which recording companies have been profiting the most, recently, and what are their methods for doing so? If a few of the companies were to combine, wouldn’t profit increase much more, helping boost the music industry once again?
Other Sources:
"Globalization101 :: What Is Globalization? Globalization101.org - A Student's Guide to Globalization." Globalization101 :: What Is Globalization?: Globalization101.org - A Student's Guide to Globalization. 05 Apr. 2009 http://www.globalization101.org/What_is_Globalization.html.
"Globalization -." Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. 05 Apr. 2009 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Globalization.
Mac Tarr
ReplyDeleteA Block
In The Economics of Globalization, A Labor View, AFLCIO leader Thomas Palley defines globalization as "a process of international integration of national
goods, financial, and labor markets. Technology has become a big part of Globalization. There are about one billion people online globally with only 6.7 billion people in the world. That’s a lot. In most developing countries, the internet access is higher. Most families in developing countries do not own their own computers. Countries like China, Turkey and Mexico have a high rate of internet usage. Although developing countries are at a big disadvantage because their just starting, to improve access and connectivity they have to improve the economy. The cost of internet usage is so high that it can sum up to a pay of a days work. Technology is a source of help to the economy because more people are buying causing the economy to boost up.
TWO QUESTIONS:
Is technology a big role in the economy?
Can technology end the recession in the US?
Shaun Quinto
ReplyDeleteTechnology and Digital Divide
After reading the article, I have come to understand how the digital divide is connected to globalization. With a growing global market there has been a demand to be able to ship information over long distances very quickly. Mobile phones have created a direct connection from person to person anywhere in the world at anytime. Also, broadband access for the internet has sped up the file sharing process.
Even though this sounds perfect, it is leaving many underdeveloped and poor countries in the dust. Countries in Africa and other underdeveloped parts are way behind in the technological advance. The more developed countries have made the transition very easily, but the others don’t have the resources to do the same. It affects their economies, because there is a lot of information available and a lot of business going on over these networks that they don’t have access too. They don’t have the same opportunities and are missing a lot of critical information and communication. The positive parts of globalization through technology is that communication can happen much faster, and with all the information on these networks business can be done more efficiently and with more knowledgeable people. The negative side is that underdeveloped countries economy’s will be left in the dust and be even more underdeveloped for the years to come. It will be much harder for them to do business with everyone else. The modern parts of the world are going to do much better with these new technology advancements but the developing areas will have a tough time. They will need to exert a lot of time, money, resources, and efforts in order to be on a level playing field with their economy.
This problem gives despair to those negatively affected by the digital divide. They are very far behind now, and if they even want a chance to have a stable economy they will need to develop very quickly. If they don’t, their economies will become very unstable and disconnected from the powerful and thriving economies. They do have a chance though. The leapfrog theory shows that they can skip a lot of costly time and resources. If they started to develop years ago, they would have had to wire the whole country which would take a lot of time and wasted energy. Now they have the chance to use wireless technology and just set up towers for phone and internet service. So, they now have some hope if they act on it quickly enough.
1) How has the digital divide helped the powerful and technologically advanced countries?
2) When will the playing field between all the countries start to even out?
The music industry dominates the global market. A huge issue associated with the music industry is piracy, or illegal sharing/copying of music. A common trend in places like North America and Asia, piracy is a nearly $4 billion industry and causes serious problems for record labels. Music can be illegally downloaded from the internet, and it can also be shared illegally by CD-R, which are blank CDs people use to share music. In the United States, it is legal to make a back up copy of a CD for personal use, and there are taxes levied on blank CDs that are fed back to the music industry. However, the products are much cheaper and deplete much of the revenue record labels could be making. Piracy protection makes it difficult to illegally sell or share music, but these copyright protections anger other consumers who wish to back-up their CDs for personal use.
ReplyDeleteThe issue of piracy can be related back to globalization. Since the music industry is a global market, it’s a problem that is widespread around the world. The problem is especially prominent in China, where pirated CDs account for 90% of all CDs sold. The problem with adding piracy restrictions is that it will anger consumers, who can eventually find ways to obtain cheaper or free music. The music industry is losing tons of money in record sales because of the illegal contribution of music, and if the problem is not resolved, the industry will continue losing, and artists will not receive their fair share of the profit. Sine this problem has become so widespread, it spells disaster for the music industry and the negative affects listed outweigh the positive affects. Some positive affects of a cheaper distribution of music is that music will be available for the masses. Music electronic devices are already so expensive, and to buy music to put in those music devices adds to that expense. Consumers are already fueling billions of dollars to these industries who exploit their love for music, so some see illegally downloading music as “getting back” at the system. Through CD-Rs and other forms of sharing, music can be bestowed upon the masses who are already broke from buying an iPod or other MP3 devices.
Questions:
1)Since illegal downloading is such a widespread problem, where do record companies first tackle the problem?
2)Radiohead released an album in 2007 called In Rainbows and allowed their fans to choose a price to pay to buy the electronic version of the album. What are other artists doing for people who cannot afford to continue legally buying music?
Heather Vale.
ReplyDeleteThomas Palley defines globalization as "a process of international integration of national goods, financial, and labor markets. It is a process that is being driven by firms through their competitive search for profits, and it is also
being driven by the process of market arbitrage which works to ensure
that the same goods sell for the same price no matter where they are
traded. In a sense, none of this is new, and globalization is just the logical
extension to the international economy of processes that have long
operated within our own domestic economy for over one hundred years." In essence, I am in complete total agreement with Palley’s definition of globalization. In this world, we strive to stay alive. In order to do so, the common necessities to prosper and live on Earth are obtained with what we call money. Nothing is free in this world.
Technology and the Digital Divide will be the topic I choose to explore. The article, “The International Digital Divide” reflects how the access to internet is not equally distributed around the globe. In fact out of the 6.7 billion individuals in this world, only 1 billion have the opportunity to be online. With only 15 percent of the world’s population online, the Internet access gap illustrates the variety of income levels across the world. In developing countries, the internet cost calls for a larger proportion of income than in developed countries. For example, those in China and Turkey pay more than $10 for monthly broadband costs. While Americans pay an average of $0.50 for monthly broadband costs. Evidently, most families in developing countries do not even own their own computers. The digital divide is a huge issue for globalization, as developing countries lack the connection the developed countries have. This leads to a less competitive atmosphere within developing countries, as their technology gadgets are not up to date. Technology has been greatly tackling this world, as every year a new piece of technology brings everyone closer together. It is the wealth and economic resources that are the underlying factors of this international digital divide.
According to the sources provided, this international digital divide brings great disadvantages to developing countries. However the developed countries benefit greatly from an increase in technology, as they are more industrialized and up to date with the latest software. Like in most cases, one side benefits while the other side suffers. It seems impossible to witness some sort of equilibrium in this world. The digital divide is magnifying the importance of technology and its influence on everyone. Nonetheless, I believe the global scope of this problem is a source of despair for those most negatively affected. ‘The implications of this gap for developing countries are significant. As one expert points out, "Continuing disconnectedness leaves developing countries less competitive in the newly wired global market place, and less participatory in the now electronically networked global knowledge systems than their more connected OECD [Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development] neighbors." ‘With developing countries lacking technology now, it seems hopeless for them to ever “catch up”. For example, a developing country can finally have access to computers while a developed country will be moving on from computers to holograms. I find it impossible for the digital divide to be unified, thus playing a large role in globalization.
1. What are the average paying jobs in a developing country?
2. Why is technology so expensive?
Karmila Saulong
ReplyDeleteBlock F
According to the WTO, “Globalization can be defined as a historical stage of accelerated expansion of market capitalism, like the one experienced in the 19th century with the industrial revolution. It is a fundamental transformation in societies because of the recent technological revolution which has led to a recombining of the economic and social forces on a new territorial dimension”. In the article, “International Environmental Problems and the Efforts to Solve Them”, a protest was held known as the “Battle of Seattle”, which challenged the premise of free trade. In 1998, the World Trade Organization (WTO) overturned the law protecting sea turtles. As a result of globalization and open trade, sea turtles have been killed in violation of international law. An example of how globalization is affecting the environment is through global warming. Global warming is a made by human activity. By burning fossil fuels and forests for industrial development, the Earth is greatly affected. This is considered an economic issue because in order for globalization to continue many changes in the environment has taken place. Globalization has been proven to be a success for the industrial companies, the world economy, and others alike. However, it has vastly taken a turn for the worse especially concerning the environment. Global changes in the environment are evidently proving how globalization can be negative. Pollution, Ozone depletion, global warming, and other affects on the environment are a direct result of globalization. It is impacting people in modern and developing regions. Some countries become poorer due to the environmental factors. For example, if a country disposes hundreds of pounds of waster per year, the water and air can affect the longevity of a person’s life span. Also, the loss of ecosystems and animals due to globalization can alter the resources animals need. Globalization is seen as source of despair for those negatively affected by it. There a millions of people who are affected by globalization. The environment, the world, is what humans and animals live on. If globalization is destroying the environment, how can we expect to survive? Using the example of global warming, due to the human activity we produce emissions of gases that are harmful for the environment that affect the ozone layers and those around us. Many people will drive huge cars and pay so much for gas instead of trying to save the environment. If people are not willing to do what’s necessary, the world will eventually deteriorate.
1)Is it possible for the environment to be protected while the world develops economically through globalization?
2)Should bans on the environmental protection be lifted in order to allow economic growth but affect the environment?
Rachel Geissler, A-Block.
ReplyDeleteGlobilization101’s article “The International Digital Divide” discusses the ever-apparent schism between developed and under-developed nations in regards to computer and Internet technology. The less developed a nation is, the larger the cost of Internet and the lower the income. Thus, it is nearly impossible for many people in the under-developed and/or developing to participate in the vast, growing technologically economy. This is considered an economic issue because the market is becoming more and more technology-based as time goes on. Therefore, high Internet prices makes puts a sluggish delay on the progression of developing nations. As the article pointed out, “Wealth and economic resources truly seems to be at the heart of the issue. Cliff Missen, Director of the Iowa-based eGranary Digital Library, said at a recent UN conference in May 2008, “There is no digital divide – it is an economic divide pure and simple. To improve access and connectivity we have to improve the economy.”” Although the divide sets developing countries back and creates fiscal strife for citizens of said nations, the article points out that the growing varieties of technology can simplify life in those countries. “For instance, the infrastructure needed to deliver telephone lines could be eliminated in many developing countries by simply using mobile communication technologies.” Such aforementioned technology offers a financially conscious ultimatum; however, it still requires money that was tight within the underdeveloped nations, offering both negative and positive aspects of the digital and economic divide.
If Internet services were more competitive in underdeveloped countries, would Internet become more inexpensive?
How could a nation participate in an Internet-based economy without having a larger number citizens utilizing the Internet?
Over the last fifty years, music has become a phenomenon. However, recently it has also become a huge problem. Although sales of CDs over the past decade have risen by 150%, sales are starting to fall. Piracy is becoming an increasing problem throughout the world. According to the AFLCIO definition, globalization is “a process of international integration of national goods, financial, and labor markets. It is a process that is being driven by firms through their competitive search for profits.” Based on this definition, music piracy does relate to globalization. Website like YouTube and programs such as Limewire make it so easy for people to steal and download music.
ReplyDeleteBefore the internet even existed, musicians had much success from the sales of their albums, but currently it has become increasingly unnecessary to buy albums when you can get the songs for free online. Most people don’t consider music piracy stealing, when, in fact, it is. This is causing record labels to add extra precautions to CDs such as removing CD-Rs, which angers paying customers who can’t play the CD on their computer.
It seems like this is only a problem in the United States, when in actuality, Asia has the biggest problem with piracy. About 90% of CDs sold in China are pirated. A positive aspect of piracy, is that in this time of economic hardship, people can still enjoy music. However, they are actually stealing, which is the negative part. Another negative part is that musicians who work hard to put out albums are losing money to the internet.
Those who are most negatively effected by music piracy are the musicians. This problem should be stopped, but it’s almost impossible to do. There are far too many downloading sites and programs. Napster, for example, is a program that uses peer-to-peer network to download music between networks. Even after RIAA challenged to stop Napster, it has continued to grow. As the article states, instead of fighting it, record companies will have to find a way to compete in the digital age.
1. What actions could legally be taken against people who pirate?
2. What actions has the RIAA taken or plan on taking end piracy?
Sarah Berfond
ReplyDeleteBlock F
Child labor is a important issue that is affecting people throughout the world. Although the International Labor Organization restricts children under 15 years of age to work and those under 18 of working in exploitative jobs, the child labor situation has not changed. This problem relates to globalization because of the products made by the children. Underdeveloped countries using child labor can create products that can be sold for little money due to the amount of pay given to their workers. These countries can make more money in the international market by selling cheaper products. The increase in the economic status of countries employing children causes a decrease in that of areas abiding by ILO’s laws. However, the positive side to child labor is that it allows the workers to have a beneficial experience and make money for their families. On the other hand, most jobs are hazardous, require long hours and restrict the employee from an education. It is impacting people in modern and developing world in that they have less job opportunities because many products are supplied by companies promoting child labor. The global scope of this issue is a source of despair for those most negatively affected by it. For example, in Egypt children work in the cotton fields for 11 hours a day and are exposed to pesticides which cause dizeness, vomiting and are dangerous to their nervous and endocrine system. This job only pays $0.81 a day. Cotton companies in other areas also suffer because they are unable to make their cotton as cheap as Egypt.
Questions:
1) Are politicians enforcing child labor laws?
2) What is the difference in prices or products from a company that uses children as workers and one that does not?
Globalization is defined as a verb that develops possible international influence or operations. Child labor is defined as young children putting forth harsh labor hours that compromise their health and education in order for the company to save money. Child labor practices are considered insanely inhumane and hazardous. Child labor has affected 218 million children, and according to international treaties child labor is illegal. Child labor mostly occurs in developing countries, such as in factories or backstreet workshops. This relates to globalization since it has expanded in to a majority of poverty induced countries. Globalization in poor enviroments can up employment; however, it may increase or decrease child labor. Moreover, it can increase the involvement of wealthier countries which could lead to an increase in labor demands. Labor demands may call on child because they'll work for less money. Or it could be positive and parents will be able to find more jobs due to the labor demands. the effect of globalization can go both directions. Almost 50% of the children who under go labor are endangering their lives by mining or handling harsh chemicals. Other labor practices inhumanly include prostitution, military, slavery, and trafficking. Child labor occurs for economic reasons, or because it's part of the life style in that area. Some families see the labor as a positive experience. Labor is not a positive experience. These poor children are being robbed of an adolescence and education, which should be granted to every child. Vietnam experienced globalization, which positively affected their country and the children of their country. Child had worked in rice fields. However, due to the international market, the price of their rice increased. This led to a 45% decrease in child workers. 1 million fewer children working. The wages began to increase, which led to the decline of child workers as well. More adults began to work. With the declination of child labor came in inclination of children who attended school. Applause to Vietnam!
ReplyDeleteI'm not exactly sure what you mean by global scope...? Perhaps that mean what the global world plans to do about this issue...Hopefully, because that the question I'm going to answer heehee.
Our world is a roller coaster of emotions. One day we'll feel bad for third world countries, and the next day we'll forget about them. Thus, those most negatively affected should not give up hope, but they shouldn't feel despair if child labor doesn't go away the next day. Huge situations such as this take time, and it will take an immense amount of time to permanently open the eyes of the world to firmly see that the child need help, not just today but everyday!Evidence can be found in everyday life from the people who donate $1 to third world countries, but the next day spend it on another Snack Wrap. Our efforts just need to continue. That was probably not even close to what the question was actually asking...
How was child labor discovered?
Do some children choose to participate in child labor?
Dartmouth College. 05 Apr. 2009 http://www.dartmouth.edu/~eedmonds/nzzessay.pdf
Music has been something that has been shared across cultures since the dawn of time, naturally it is a key part of the flow of the world's economy. File sharing and piracy have certainly put a damper on the music industry as it allows for millions of files to be transferred for free everyday. In the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s. The technology to "share" music and files wasn't available. With the invention of Napster, people who would go out and buy music would log onto the internet and download the album for free. However, there are positives. Consumers are obviously, saving money -- and the people promoting these bands benefit as they are being publicized for free. It's impact on the world is very significant in developed countries like the U.K, U.S., Japan and China -- but shows little clot in developing regions continets such as Africa and South-East Asia. Though I believe it would benefit their economies because citizens would be able to buy movies, CD's, and pictures for a cheaper price, and they can save their funds for more essential things like food and shelter. This problem is a source of despair for the music industry because they are seeing a serious decline in the global market due to the availability of the CD-R. "The proliferation of music download sites on the internet has also caused problems for the worldwide market. With digital copies of CDs available to download and copy to CD-Rs, the problem is considered to be far greater than that of cassettes, to which the industry responded with a campaign claiming that ‘home taping is killing music.’"
ReplyDelete1. How are music companies combating piracy other than advertising the benefits of purchasing music?
2. How is the American public responding to anti-Piracy campaigns?
Mariel Elia
ReplyDeleteEven though everyone downloads music, it has a big impact on the economy. The first big music bust was on Napster, since that their has been many others. People have been downloading illegal music since technology advanced. The music industry has been suffering because of free music on the internet. It's not only happening in the United States, but in China as well. "An estimated 90% of CDs sold in China being pirated copies. In the legitimate market place, sales in Asia were down by around 20% in 2002."BBC World Wide -Fighting piracy. This is considered a economical conflict because it's stealing money from the record companies. The positive side about this is free music for all people and the negative is less money in taxes and it's hurting us. From my perception, i personally don't think it's so bad because our economy is discombobulated already so free music shouldn't be a problem. Their are more horrific things to worry about.
- What happens to people after they are caught with millions of downloaded music ?
- How are the record companies handling this ?
Feetnotes
-"Fighting piracy." BBC Worldservice. http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/specials/1042_globalmusic/page7.shtml.
Loretta Au
ReplyDeleteBlock F
One of the areas where human rights is being violated is child labor. These children work for reasons like helping support their families financially, or because of cultural and social standard. While child labor has some positive attributes like experience, it is an economic issue because it often takes away a child’s right to education. Child labor has been an issue for a long time. It is a problem being tackled by organizations like the International Labor Organization (ILO). This organization has adopted conventions that protect children under a certain age form labor. Since 1973, the minimum age to work is when the child completed compulsory schooling, which is about 15 years old. In 1999, the ILO considered the minimum working age to be 18. While the ILO encourages these conventions, about 218 million children are still victims of child labor.
Globalization is essentially a growing trend of independent markets. It is when a small occurrence transforms into a well-known entity. Child labor is related to globalization because, while it is more popular in some nations, it is a global issue and concern. This impacts people in modern and developing regions in the world because like a fad, these trends often spread quickly and easily.
In my opinion, the global scope of this problem is a source of despair for those most negatively affected by it. Many of the children most negatively affected by it do not have alternatives and are forced to work for various reasons. Like the ILO, I believe all children are entitled to an education, and being denied education is being denied a basic human right.
1. Where is child labor most common?
2. What specific jobs are children who have fallen victim to child labor most widespread?
Teresa Konopka
ReplyDeleteIndependent Study
Words 400
Globalization is a means of integrating supplies amongst many markets. It is the logical extension of an international economy. When energy comes into play, globalization takes on a new light as it impacts the economy, human rights, and developments in several areas of the world.
Energy consumption worldwide has been steadily increasing since 1950. The amount of energy consumed every day in insurmountable. While North America and Europe have long been the most energy wasting continents. Asia is catching up. China and India are utilizing more electricity as outsourcing becomes popular and their citizens are needed to do electronic work in addition to the many factories being run already. As for what most of the world uses, the main fossil fuel is oil. Amazingly, the average American uses 2x the amount of energy as Europeans and 7x the amount of energy as Chinese citizens. In terms of developing regions of the world, many are left in the dark after the sun goes down while other nations are lit up until the wee hours of the night. Also, some nations have gaps between the rich and the poor. This could mean that the rich get electricity and no pollution while the poor get no electricity and all the pollution thrown in their direction.
Nuclear power has been popular since the mid twentieth century. Many nuclear power plants are being set up across the world. Most nations that rely on nuclear power are: France, Belgium, Ukraine, Korea, Germany, Japan, and Russia. In the United States, nuclear power isn’t the popular since there is liability for private reactor accidents, many of which can be extremely lethal. Many nuclear explosions have made nations wary of its usage. However, nuclear power has its comeback as other forms of energy are more expensive. Some nations would rather compromise health for price. Another big problem is that nuclear power can be used destructively given the explosive nature of some of the elements. So, many nations are cautious of whether or not hostile nations’ “nuclear plants” are really just cover-ups for pseudo Manhattan projects.
Questions to peers:
If you were a president of a third world country, would you sacrifice health for price in favor of nuclear power? Do you see any harm in the expansion of energy and thus more greenhouse gases, even if they will have vast benefits for poor nations?
Mike Orr
ReplyDeleteC- Block
Child Labor
Today many parents it is good for kids to have a job because it will teach them how to fend for them selves, and it will give them experience for when they get older. Some will call it a Win Win situation. But The International Labor Organization does not. They have different views on a certain type of child labor. They feel that it is cruel to take a child away from an education, or have a child work in dangerous conditions like severe heat, or where there is dust that kids can inhale. Child labor is affecting the world. Children should be able to be children, and go out to play until around thirteen years of age. Than they are young men and women where they can get a little job to have money in their pockets.
But over all I agree with the ILO because children should go to school first, and then go to work around the school hours in safe conditions. Around 218 Million children around the world are victims of child labor. But these are kids from ages 5-17, who should have to be working severe jobs, or any jobs at all. The only way these children should be able to work is is they want to help out there family in a time of need. Other than those conditions, child labor is completely wrong in my views and the ILO’s views
Veronica Geager
ReplyDeleteA Block
Music Piracy is a global issue that continues to thrive and grow every year. Music Piracy is when someone buys a song or album illegally. Tjis can be through any internet souce that is not approved by the record label or artist. The idea of pirating music began jsut as the Digital Age began to truly take hold on the world. The introduction of the internet allowed many different markets to come together and be more accessable to more people. This can lead to posative and negative effects. On the posative end of the spectrum, people are finding cheaper ways to listen to their favorite artsts, and in unfavorable economic times this way of listening is favorable. On the negative side, this is also considered "stealing" music from the artists and his/her record label.
For those negativly effected by music piracy, this is a sign that times are changing and the "CD Era" of music is over. Millions of people are buying individual songs or whole albums off the internet through itunes, or "not buying" whole albums or individual songs off of other interent music sites. According to the text,the Big Five, who record almost 90 percent of the music in the world, are most hurt by the decline in CD buying.For a label to break even on an artist, 800,000 copies of a CD would have to be sold in a fast period of time. 99 percent of albums bomb, making it extremly hard of the artist and record label to make money. Although, most record label's are owned by bigger corporations who make money off of ticket sales and tour merchandise. Therefore, for "everyone' to make money in the music industry it is imperative that an artist go out on tour in support of their album, since download profits are, usually, very bleek.
1. How does the money from record sales get split up between the label and the artist?
2. In 2008, artists such as Radio Head and Nine inch Nails sold their album online for whatever price the fan was willing to pay. From a record label stand point, is this a lucrative idea?
Globalization can be interpreted in many different was ways, but I prefer to use the analysis of Frank Lechner, “Globalization broadly refers to the expansion of global linkages, the organization of social life on a global scale, and the growth of a global consciousness, hence to the consolidation of world society.” Public health care plays a large role in improving life for many people not only those in developing countries but for everyone. New-found technology such as vaccines, drugs, disease surveillance strategies, and behavioral or medical interventions that prevent or eliminate disease transmission can help prevent infectious diseases, but without proper public health care many under privileged people will not get the help they need. The problem is that there is little to no motivation for less-affected countries to invest, leaving the poor countries with poor public health care in a vicious cycle. However, there are still many million individuals living in the United States without proper health care. One solution is to require wealthier countries to increase spending on an international public health system. Professor Jeffrey Sachs of Columbia University’s suggests that developed countries must commit to spend an extra one-tenth of 1 percent on health care for developing countries. “…investment would eventually realize $360 billion a year in economic gains to poor countries, saving eight million lives a year and lifting millions more out of poverty.” There are definitely new concerns about global public health but globalization bids innovative solutions to the problem by expanding global linkage and consolidating world society. However for globalization be successful highly developed countries must assist a great deal, and most countries are not willing to sacrifices there own resources to support others.
ReplyDeleteQuestions-
Are there solutions to improving public global health care?
What else has been done to improve public global health care?
Additional Resources-
Lechner, Frank. "What is Globalization." The globalization website. 22 Apr. 2009 http://www.sociology.emory.edu/globalization/issues01.html.
Elizabeth - thoughtful and sophisticated post. You raise an interesting issue about health loans creating a cycle of debt that makes it nearly impossible for developing nations to deal with health issues on their own and make authentic economic progress. E+
ReplyDeleteJustin - Detailed and analytical work. It is clear you get the negative aspects of music piracy, but how are some artists managing to sustain their success? Is there potentially a silver lining to the impending doom of file sharing? E+
Mac- This post is off to a good start but falls short on outlining the topic as directed in the assignment guidelines. N.
Shaun - You do a solid job explaining how the lack of affordable access to communications technology impacts the developing world and creates a situation difficult for them to recover from. I'm curious as to how this situation is being worked on/ ammended and what the positive aspects of the digital divide are (there's always to sides to a situation.) G
Anam - Thoughtful and precise in terms of
Melissa Coughlin
ReplyDeleteBlock C
Genetically modified organisms are nothing new in the world of economics and globalization. For centuries, farmers have been using a method called 'selective breeding' on livestock and plant life. Most things you eat probably are genetically modified. One of the oldest examples would be a type of grass that was bred in different ways, resulting in rye and wheat. But controversy has erupted, as it always does in the field of science. People believe that changing the DNA of organisms is unethical. In their opinion, we are altering life and we should not be given the opportunity to do so.
All of this affects economies world wide. These products are traded immensely, both nationally and internationally. Creating trouble when an individual preaches that genetically modified organisms are immoral. Another problem frequent to the topic is creating more allergens and other species that have a negative effect on the public. For example, one of the first genetically modified organisms was in fact E.coli, a strain of salmonella.
Many countries have strict restrictions on the trade and creating of GMOs. New Zealand does not allow GMOs anywhere, including medicine. A few counties in California have banned GMOs, but in counties rich with farmland this resolution was not passed. Yet, the United States' "hat", Canada is one of the biggest producers of genetically modified Canola. Interestingly, the country Zambia is pro GMOs. They are a country very interested in biotechnology, so they educate their public about the practice.
Personally, I think that genetically modifying life is a great scientific practice. How else could we create cures for diseases and have perfect grass to golf on (yes, that grass is genetically altered)? After all, this happens naturally all the time. Pollen from plants is blown around through the wind or carried by animals, and lands on a similar but different flower. It is then that a new species of flower is born.
How long do they test a GMO product before it is released into the public for consumption (if edible)?
What else has been genetically modified that we use everyday?
Global public health is concerned with the use of genetically modified organisms (GMO's). Scientists have found ways to find genetic codes of plants and animals for the purpose of improving those organisms, which may include making them more resistant to parasites, grow faster or have higher quantities of protein.
ReplyDeleteThe use and study of GMO's has stirred up controversy, with concerns about messing with life and health issues and concerns.
GMO's are viruses, bacterium or a more complex form of life who genetic make up has been altered for a specific purpose. Organisms are changed/modified by finding pieces of DNA to be replicated, extracting that DNA, putting that DNA into another organism and then finally reproducing a new organism with the traits of the DNA being used.
Cross breeding has been going on for hundreds of years with farmers creating a specific grass, such as wheat or rye, but with GMO's the selective breeding is much for exclusive. Specific traits are being chosen to mixed with other specifics creating an entirely new offspring, rather than an offspring similar to the parents. It's as if two parents went to a lab and chose the traits of their child and created the child to look absolutely nothing like them, as if it was not their own child, when in fact it is.
But there are limits to selective breeding, that not everything can be combined and that both things being combined have to have some similarities. These limitations do not apply to GMO's though.
The problem with GMO's and altering food rising health concerns and risks. In highly developed and developed nations access to doctors and medicine is readily avaliable, where as an under developed country will be affected more, should something go wrong in a modification.
Altering and creating new organisms may possibly improve and/or better the world in some way, but if they are produced the wrong way and harm people a way to help those hurt or affected by the new organism may not be able to be created in enough time to help.
1. Are there some kind of deal between health plans and labs that run the GMO's and food testing and altering?
2. Besides food what else can be modified?
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteTarina Meaders
ReplyDeleteC block 4/28/09
very late :(
This article first makes the point that the use of internet in the world is not equal. 15 percent of people of the world population is online. It then goes on to explain that in developing countries it costs more to be apart of the online community unlike developed countries. This source also touches on increase of the price of broadband internet and the obstacle of computers not being personally owned by many families in developing countries, making the internet impossible to utilize for everyday information. Even though developing countries are "out of the loop" they are still catching up in other ways. For instance the infrastructure that is used to hold together telephone wires can be eliminated by using mobile communication devices, this could help developing countries catch up to the developed and highly developed ones. This technique is called the "Leapfrog Effect".The global scope of this problem is positive because the "leapfrog effect" is when you cut out a step in development that is not necessary in a country anymore in order to get that nation up to speed with their latest hurdle. I feel this is a tiny bit of hope for the underdeveloped countries. Even though some older technology can be helpful, the undeveloped countries are still too far behind.
I only have one question really, is it okay if there arent many negative effects to technology globalization?
Alicia Pepitone aka ay peppy
ReplyDeleteMusic Industry
The music industry is a major importance to our government and economy. The usual income for this industry is roughly thirty million dollars per year. Since the 50s – 80s music was always fun and enjoyable. When our country became more developed the cost and charges fees were brought up/ higher. Our folks from many years ago would legally pay for their music and support upcoming pop stars. With our newly enhanced technology, the people of today’s world are able to sit at home and receive any kind of music preferred. The Internet access we have today, such as lime wire, allows i.e. myself to download whatever songs or albums I want, with no COST! Yes, that means free! As you can imagine I'm one of millions who are downloading music daily. Therefore our government and economy are loosing billions of profit. The United States is not the only country where this problem is occurring. Developed countries such as the U.K, Japan, and China also have advance technology, which allows the citizens to illegally get music, for free. In developing countries such as Africa, some may feel that it’s a advantage to illegally burn DVDs, CDs, etc… therefore those who are not as fortunate as others can afford such things as everyone else who pays in full price. So although it’s a major effect on the economy, it’s a plus to the lower class.
In BBC’s article, the fighting piracy takes this issue very serious. If caught downloading music, burning CDs & DVDs, etc… an arrest is suggested, being that we are technically stealing money from the government and causing a downfall in our economy. So although when we are sitting at home enjoying whatever music we want, we don’t realize we are hurting ourselves. It becomes less tax money well receive and it’s not worth jail time.
I personally feel that this illegal consumption/ habit we are all used to will not stop. And near future there will be many more opportunities to get free necessities, and when that happens, our people, including myself will be willing to follow along in each other’s paths.
TWO MAIN QUESTIONS:
a.Should the people of America feel bad that we are causing a downfall to those, such as the music industry, who are already very wealthy?
b.If millions are downloading daily, what is the governments backup plan?
Sylvia Shojai
ReplyDeleteA Block
The aspect of globalization I chose to look at is music piracy. To most, music piracy, or file sharing really does not seem like much of a big deal. This may be because most of us do not ever consider what exactly is going on with the business of illegal file sharing. It is looked at as such a casual thing, and is accepted in society, particularly among the youth. Most teenagers who are interested in music and own a computer will most likely admit that they have illegally downloaded music at least once. Globalization is defined as a community’s growth to a global or worldwide scale of its economies and societies through international trade and capital flow, as well as the spread of culture, technology, and transnational regulations. Western Pop music is one of the most widespread aspects being globalized; it is produced, marketed, and consumed all over the world. Over the past fifty years, pop music culture has soared into a global industry with a net worth of over thirty billion dollars. Of the vast global music market, ninety percent is accounted for by just five corporations, EMI Records, Sony, Vivendi Universal, AOL Time Warner and BMG. They are also known as “the big five”. Each of these corporations has a headquarters in the United States, and manage major international music markets. These competitors face against each other in the same industry, but are not always necessarily competing against each other, they sometimes merge their power together to achieve a project. In addition the big five companies often own many small known labels. Labels are usually begun by entrepreneurs looking to make it big, but the major music industries have preeminence in the field and eventually take over small labels if they are showing rising success. Maintaining dominance, the large corporations are slowly taking over the small labels which are being sucked into the supremacy of the market to gain control of the power circulating. Although in the last decade CD sales have increased by 150%, annual worldwide sale numbers are decreasing due to the easy access to pirated music online. Recording companies are being outsmarted with the widespread of CD-Rs, which is a recordable CD that is available everywhere and cheap, making sharing music a piece of cake. In 2001, the value of CD-R sales overtook recorded music sales for the first time. Making CD copies onto CD-Rs may not seem like a big deal at all, it benefits the customers who are saving money on it. The entire industry is being threatened by this popular tactic which is cutting into its profits. It has made attempts to hinder music duplication and file sharing by implementing copy protection policies on some CDs. This has backfired in some cases, resulting to lawsuits against the big five labels. They are continuously working towards a resolution towards this “problem” although most will agree that music piracy is just people’s way of trying to get there money’s worth. Michael Kurtz of Media Monitor states that music piracy is a cultural shift; on the other hand people do not feel as though they should be obligated to pay for something they can acquire for free, especially in times of the recession during which tight budgets have to be accounted for.
The facet of music piracy seems like a hopeless battle for the music industry to win. Millions of people share music files online every single day, and will most likely not cease to do so even if they are ordered to stop by law. After all, has the law ever succeeded in restricting people from doing something they claimed was wrong?
1. How does the music industry plan on enforcing a ban of downloading music illegally, in other words, how can they actually stop people from doing this since they cannot track down every offender?
2. Why doesn’t the music industry negotiate some way for people to obtain music without being made out to be criminals for wanting avoid paying a ridiculous, impractical price for music?
Ciara Gonzalez
ReplyDeleteEconomics
May 2009
The music piracy article basically talked about music pirating, how it has been spreading rapidly, and how it affects the music industry and economy. With people just going online to “peer share” music, there’s no longer a need for people to purchase music. Therefore big artists and even the label industries that promote them are losing major amounts of money. Artists no longer get paid as much as they wouldvt been before music could be shared through the internet.
I believe that the music pirating is a source of despair for the artists and the labels. They are most definetly losing money because of the useof internet.But I also feel the music industry must find new ways to make money, like concerts. The article states that in January 2003 the president of the RIAA finally admitted that the online music industry is not going to end anytime soon, which is a good reason why the music industry must find other sources of money.
1. Has the income for artists been decreasing drastically recently? If so, by how much?
2. If the RIAA has finally admitted that music pirating is here to stay, are the consequences still very strict?