In the second Honors
Satellite Seminar presenter Zanny Minton-Beddoes, Washington
Economics Editor for the Economist, talked about American protectionist
policies towards the expansion of the China economy in the global marketplace.
In response to that presentation Phi Theta Kappa Executive Director Rod
Risley remarked, "It seems that whenever it comes down to jobs or economics
that we're very anxious to protect ourselves [United States]. But the truth
of the matter is that the global economy has been in play for some time, and
it's just the fact that the China economy, in terms of the rigorous growth
rate, is really on the radar screen." Agreeing with Ms. Beddoes' argument
that the U.S. shouldn't fear economic globalization, Risley continued,
"We need to embrace and find ways to seize the opportunities rather than
be threatened by them."
Globalization is not just of interest
to economists. We too should take it upon ourselves to understand how things
are changing both in the workplace and on campus. Globalization is changing
the demographics on college campuses. Community colleges have historically
prided themselves on their open access and the diversity that creates.
While diversity may cause some to feel fearful or uneasy, it also provides
an educational opportunity for us all. If we embrace the ideas of globalization
and take the opportunity to learn about diverse people and cultures, now
more common on college campuses around the country, we will be better prepared
to understand our role in the expanding, global marketplace. Indeed, globalization
is not a threat but a door to greater opportunities for all of us if we only
decide to embrace it.
For more on this important topic be sure
to check out The Key Line, Rod Risley's featured commentary, in
the latest edition of KeyCast.
