Unit Eight Overview

How should I respond to globalization?


A Canadian university student shares some technology to transport patients to hospital in Africa. To reduce greenhouse gas emissions, a businesswoman walks to work instead of driving. A group of children raise funds to pay for school fees for kids in Haiti. A town develops a program of curbside recycling. A voter studies carefully the positions of candidates on environmental legislation before casting his ballot. Each of these demonstrates a commitment to citizenship.

In the past, people thought of themselves as members of families, communities, and nations, but today we realize we are part of a larger community, a global village, and our actions have effects felt all around the world.

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Reflect


What does it mean to be a citizen?

In a democratic society, being a citizen brings certain rights and responsibilities. But what does it mean to be a global citizen? What rights do people have in a global world? What responsibilities do individuals, governments, organizations, and businesses have to address the opportunities and challenges of globalization? How can we meet these obligations best?
Courtesy J McIldoon