Module 4: The Economics of Globalization

Prosperity and Me

What assumptions do understandings and attitudes about prosperity form about perceptions of an individual’s identity and citizenship?

Upon first glance, which image might influence you in identifying the individual as prosperous? Which image influences who you think might be the individual who currently holds and can access rights and freedoms? What guided your conclusions?

Is prosperity necessary for an individual to be recognized as holding identity and citizenship? Think of the attitudes that people may attach to prosperity. With prosperity, a successful-looking individual may easily have identity and citizenship recognized.

Without prosperity, is an individual challenged to affirm equal status in identity and citizenship? What do you think the image of the man tells you about his prosperity?

What do you know about the life of Howard Hughes? He is the subject of a movie called The Aviator. He left a legacy worth over $2 billion, yet prior to his death, he was often ignored in the street as a homeless man.

Reflection

Assumptions About Prosperity

Reflect on your initial impressions about prosperity when you viewed the images. Write responses to these questions in your journal or notes. 

1. How logical are the assumptions you make about prosperity, identity, and citizenship?
   
   
2. Are the assumptions you make about the identity and citizenship of citizens in least prosperous countries valid?
   
   
3. People have diverse understandings of prosperity. It may be about material wealth, health, life satisfaction, and expectancy or living the kind of life you choose. Without prosperity, does your identity and citizenship have any value? Reflect on whether your own identity and citizenship is tied to what prosperity you have in your life.