The Ethics Of Globalization

In order to ensure that globalization is modeled in ways that are just and life affirming, we must understand the differences among competing globalization theories. Not all of the voices discussing globalization are saying the same thing. We must pay attention to the different moral visions underlying different theories of globalization and the kind of life they offer for all of creation. Alternative models of globalization that reflect the values of democratizing power, caring for the planet, and attending to the social wellbeing of people will ultimately require the combined efforts of people of goodwill around the world. [1]

The goals of this paper are threefold: 1) to provide an orientation to the debate about globalization; 2) to explore the ethical values that underlie different models of globalization; and, 3) to suggest approaches that ensure that globalization proceeds in ways that give priority to a democratized understanding of power, encourage care for the planet, and enhance the social wellbeing of people. The discussion centers on the comparison and evaluation of globalization positions that originate from different standpoints. The reason to examine the ethics of each of the globalization positions is to compare what they value, that is, what vision of life they offer to humankind and to the earth.

While it is important to examine the theories and values of the different globalization positions, actions and interactions in the world are often clearer expressions of what is valued. This paper gives examples of actions and interactions around the globe that illustrate ways in which the ethical norms of globalization are put into practice.

Many of these actions and projects originate in higher education with service learning projects and in local community groups with their commitment to social justice. We examine three ways to respond to the challenges of globalization: design-implement projects and case studies, environmental projects, and fair trade. While we do not give practical strategies for engineering programs, we hope to highlight the issues upon which engineering program strategies are decided.