Globalization: a theoretical reflection
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to evaluate and situate globalization within the context of different theoretical perspectives, with a view to developing a theoretical framework for understanding and interpreting this phenomenon.Design/methodology/approach – In the light of historical and empirical evidence, this paper uses the idea of parallax to explore, synthesize and interpret globalization. Evidence is marshalled in order to enable comparative assessments on the merits of the globalized system to take place.Findings – A materialist approach is identified as appropriate for aiding and deepening our understanding of the processes at work. It best captures the complexities and contradictions in the global economy.Originality/value – This paper develops a critique that locates globalization within the process of accumulation and teases out its attendant crises and efforts to restore profitability. The materialist approach developed here may be successfully applied in a holistic manner.
Free Trade Doesn't Work: What Should Replace It and Why
SLO #1 think sociologically SLO #2 bracket or set aside common sense knowledge about the social world SLO #3 see the individual achievement in social context SLO #4 understand social, structural explanations of globalization SLO #5 understand the principles of global stratification SLO #6 demonstrate a basic understanding of stratification theories SLO #7 appreciate the constructedness of social reality
Environment and Food
1. Introduction: Why Environment and Food? 2. The Global Agri-Food System 3. The Ecological Basis of Primary Food Production 4. Global Challenges for Food Production 5. Final Foods: Transformation, Transportation and Waste 6. Food Security: Issues and Challenges 7. Towards A Sustainable Agri-Food System 8. Conclusions