Globalisation

Globalisation

1. With the growth of communication, movement of peoples, trade and so on the phenomenon of economic and cultural movements across boundaries to the world level.

2. Issues

   • To maximise profits an organisation may locate its headquarters in countries where they will have only light-touch regulation. Many countries have choses to sail under 'flags of convenience'.
     • Subject to the regulations of that nation - may be lax in employment rules or other conditions.
       • Arguments for doing so are generally matters of convenience and profit. The consequences may include sailors being exploited , lax safety and other forms of abuse.
       • Multi National companies are guilty of treating suppliers in developing countries unfavourably to get goods at minimal prices. Companies have been accused of permitting the use of child labour in poor countries.
   • Cultural effects on indigenous peoples as they are affected by businesses whose values are not their own. Deforestation by international companies has been an issue in the amazon and elsewhere. However, increased and rapid communications have brought increased awareness of these issues.

3. Ethics

   • Modern technology makes ethical judgement more complex.
     • John XXIII identified very clearly the issues that needed to be addressed broadening the principles of natural law and the ideas of Catholic social teaching. Reference to solidarity and his identification of neo-colonialism as an issue.