This forum will attempt to get students to think critically about current global political issues and events by applying what they have been learning in the course. It is recommended that students complete the lessons for that week before attempting the post since they should apply what they have learned.
Grading:
In many cases, these discussions are considered “exploratory” or “expressive writing”, but each student should demonstrate that they have thought hard and critically about the topic or question, attempted to be objective (not biased and considering the alternative argument), and attempted to apply concepts or analysis learned in the course so far, especially that week’s lesson.
Instructions:
1. Start your own thread pondering the topic or question presented. Follow the grading guidelines above. Posts should be at least one paragraph, but preferably two. See each topic description for specific instructions on posting in that topic.
2. Reply to the posts of two other students, unless told otherwise in on the discussion board. Engage in civil discourse by critically evaluating the student’s post in a respectful and appreciative tone.
Too often, Americans do not think “globally” and are intent on looking only within to explain current events. This course is designed to ensure our graduates are able to analyze events and issues by thinking beyond the domestic / national level, and to understand the impact of geo-political and international dynamics. One of those is globalization. As you are learning, just about NOTHING is left untouched by globalization. We are truly in a “globalized world”. Review the two reports below from highly reputable, credible and objective sources; one scholarly, and one a mainstream news source.
“In the U.S. and around the world, inflation is high and getting higher” (Pew Research Center)
“How much for gas? Around the world, pain is felt at the pump” (AP)
After doing so, discuss in a few paragraphs the two topics of inflation and fuel prices in a way that conveys your newfound or expanded understanding of globalization. For example, attempt to explain prices here in the U.S. given what you have learned. This should include some knowledge as to what specific issues or events contribute to prices. Also, is the U.S. alone, or even the worst when it comes to prices? Last, what are you gleaning from these two sources and what have you learned in lecture so far? You should explicitly reference key points from the Friedman reading and Nichols podcast.
You do NOT need to reply to the post of a classmate; however, after posting, you should review the posts of your classmates and determine if there are any gaps or areas of improvement in your own writing or understanding to support your academic development as you continue in this course.