Unit 4 Week 2 Response

There are many things I learned this week.



I learned about the different ways in which the Internet can be used, and how it can affect us, as well as others. The Internet is both good and bad; we can learn from it and share our thoughts and opinions. We can also use it to contact people all over the world; even people who speak different languages and have different cultures. There are many pros and cons to the Internet. Some people use it raise awareness on topics and issues they are passionate about. Others, however, abuse the Internet and use it as an outlet for expressing their negativity. I can respond to this by using the Internet appropriately and encouraging others to do the same.


I also learned about gender equality, or rather, gender inequality. Gender inequality is not as big of a problem today as it has been in the past. There is much progress going on, but there is still a lot more to be done. Most women, in many cultures, are the ones doing the housework and daily chores. Women put in a lot of time doing unpaid work, like raising children. It is not fair that men get the top jobs in many companies. I do not see why women should not be treated equally to men. I could respond to gender inequality by raising awareness on the topic through many mediums.

I think fair trade certification is great; people can choose to buy products they know will help the economies of their countries, as well as others. I can respond to free trade certification by buying these products, instead of buying other products that are most likely produced by people who do not get paid properly for the work they do.

Stephon Marbury's shoe line Starbury is very cool. It makes a statement that just because something isn't expensive doesn't mean its not cool. Also, his shoes are not made by underpaid workers in developing countries using cheap labour. I can respond to this by not giving in to peer pressure and buying expensive products just to "fit in".

Social clauses are great! Its great to know that things are being done to help developing countries and people who are being treated unfairly by ways of cheap labour. A way I can respond to social clauses is by raising awareness on the topic.

The link between International Funding Agencies and Foreign Debt is very sad. This raises questions about whether International Funding Agencies are doing more bad than good. I can respond to this by researching and raising awareness on the topic.