Kyle and Colin Thursday Activity

Economic Profile: Panama

Panama: Greg, Emily, Tom

GDP: 87.2 million

GDP Growth: 5.8%

PPP: $21,800

Household Consumption: 51.3%

Government Consumption: 10.8%

GDP Composition:

Agriculture: 3%  Agricultural Products: bananas, corn, coffee, rice

Industry: 20% Industry: construction, brewing, cement/construction material

Services: 77%

Labor Force of 1.587 million

HDI (2014): 0.780 (average annual increase of 0.65%

• Life Expectancy at Birth: 77.6%
• Expected Years of Schooling: 13.3%
• Mean Years of Schooling: 9.3%
• GNI Per Capita (According to 2011 PPP): 18,192

 

Vietnam

Developing country: Vietnam
Currently a Communist country that is located in Asia
GDP (current US$) 2015: 193.599 Billion
Population 2015: 91,703,800
Poverty headcount ratio at national poverty lines 2014: 13.5
Life expectancy at birth 2014: 75.629
GNI per capita 2015: 1,980


Jenelle Joseph, Robert Krohe, Emily Kurchock

Bernicia, Mary Albert, Ryan - Peru Economic Portfolio

• HDI - 0.734
• GDP/PPP - 468 Billion
• Average Income Per Person - $13,735 per year

Economic Profile: Costa Rica

Sydnie Dempelein, Hannah Ranalli, Keyanna Colon

Costa Rica

HDI: 0.766 (rank 69)
Average income per person: $6,810
PPP: $12,900
GNi: $10,210

What the U.S. Doesn't Understand About BRICS

The US doesn't understand that just because BRICS isn't in the G8 that they are not an economic power to be included in G8 (now G7) affairs. It is important that the US creates a positive relationship with the BRICS countries because they are fast growing economies. The US should not underestimate the capabilities that the BRICS countries have.

What the U.S. Doesn't Understand About BRICS

I think the U.S. government, despite its apparent complete ignorance of many issues, actually has a solid understanding of foreign affairs and the BRICS countries.  I think the misunderstanding comes from U.S. citizens, who tend to misjudge and look down upon poorer countries, including the (comparatively developed) BRICS countries, despite their growing economies and populations.  Americans, not just the educated few, should understand that there is more to the worldwide power dynamic than the U.S. and a few countries in Europe, and should be prepared for the power swings coming in the next half century.

What The U.S Doesn't Understand About BRICS

What the US fails to recognize about BRICS is that it is vital for them to be recognized and their influence is paramount. Over time the economic powers are changing and more and more are emerging. These emerging economic powers would be vital in the expansion of influence if they were added to the G8. If this is done, the BRICS which are located geographically in places that the G8 isn't originally located would expand the power and influence and give countries from all over the world a voice in what the G8 does.

What doesn't the U.S. understand about BRICS?

The United States' main influence in the global economic spectrum is through its inclusion in the G8. Considering that the G8 is a group of all industrialized countries, they have come to underestimate the power and capabilities of BRICS. The U.S. has failed to understand that the fast growing economies and development that is currently taking place within all the countries that make up BRICS provides them with the potential to acquire power that will ultimately position them above the G8. The G8 and BRICS should join together to collaboratively tackle global problems.

What the U.S. Doesn't Understand About BRICS

The U.S. seems to underestimate the rising powers that make up BRICS. China is already one of the most powerful countries in the world, and the others are quickly rising to power as well. The U.S. doesn't seem to fully understand that these countries are going to be a centerpiece of the future of the world economy and the importance of joining forces with those countries to accomplish more together.

What the US doesn't understand about BRICS

While the G8 and it's participants contain much of the westernized/ developed countries of the world, what they don't understand is the concept of developING countries. While right now they hold the economic power over much of the world, the reality of a catch up is very possible. With China's booming economy and Africa's discovery of natural resources they are both, as well as many other countries in BRICS, likely to make strides economically very soon. Therefore, the G8 doesn't understand that by creating a divided world they will not hold the power for much longer. Instead, we must work together to fix the problems of our world.

What doesn’t the US understand about BRICS?

The United States’ involvement in the global economic arena (in this case, participation in the G8), makes them think that it has an understanding of how economies really impact where we are globally. What the United States fails to recognize is that BRICS represents the advanced economic development of the emerging national economies (which also plays a huge role in the global economic arena). The countries in BRICS should unite with the G8 in reference to the topic of global governance. Having these countries apart of the G8 would display the representation of those countries that are not geographically represented in the G8. The United States should develop an understanding that the economies of BRICS are just as powerful as those that are in the G8.

BRICS

The U.S. should understand how beneficial BRICS can be. Organizations like the G8 and BRICS should come together instead of being separate because more issues could be tackled if forces are combined.

BRICS - Tucker Douglas

What the United States does not understand about BRICS is effective strategies to benefit both the US and countries involved. As these countries grow, the US should be reaching agreements to help grow their economies, and work as an economic ally.

China & Africa Discussion Post

Group Members: Elyse Mitchell, Sydnie Dempelein, Keyanna Colón, Colin Casto, Jenelle Joseph

Some of the main points we discussed were the shifting influences of power and how those dynamics can effect the global economy specifically on how sustainability could be a main force in gaining that power. By honing in on sustainable energy and resources China/Africa could take the lead economically. We also talked about the United States role in Africa in comparison to China's. Although China's motives in Africa are for it's own self-interest their aid is also benefiting Africa whereas western societies do not take in to account African's needs as much. This brings us to an interesting point from the article about  how China is doing some of the same diplomacy in Africa but with a different approach and that their presence in the continent has large support from the Africans. The continual growth in African and Chinese economies poses a threat to those westernized powers still in control. As time goes on it will be interesting to see how this shift will effect not only those countries but the world as a whole.

The US  seems to underestimate the power of BRICS. Joining forces with the upcoming powers of the world would probably be more beneficial than standing "against" them.

Kyle Dool, Will Schreiner, Robert Krohe, Tucker Douglas China-Africa Response

In recent decades, Sino-African economic relations have caught the attention of many other world superpowers. China has increased its flow of resources and aids into the continent in the hope that it can be the greatest beneficiary of the impending boom of the African economies. 

This probable boost to the Chinese government has raised red flags to a lot of other large economies, especially democratic Western ones. Some believe China is taking advantage of lax regulations and the vulnerability of African economies. China's form of "aid" is intertwined with trade deals that actually benefit all involved parties. China helps develop areas on the continent in exchange for a preferred trade partnership. This upsets countries like America because China is poised to take the top spot as the world's most dominant economy. Relations between the communist country and America and its democratic allies has never been perfect, and the possibility of China becoming the most dominant economic superpower is worrying. 

This partnership changes the economic structure because it elevates the economies of both China and Africa. The prospect of Africa becoming a more developed area with rising GDPs and trade is beneficial to the entire global economic system. As Africa begins to become a more relevant player throughout the globe, the economic structure shifts to become more balanced instead of dominated by Western powers. 

The addition of an emerging, increasingly successful economy, especially as large of a market as Africa, is undeniably beneficial to global economics, however the cost of a more powerful China is troubling to some. 

Tom, Greg, Ryan, Emily Chinese African Relations Post

How might the economic development of China lead to a bipolar world?
What are the changes in global economic structures?

Currently, the U.S. and Western countries are in power but as China's economy continues to grow and especially as its trade with Africa continues to grow it's possible that China will soon surpass all of the other countries. This has the potential of creating a lot of turmoil as democracy is the prominent government structure currently and for China to start to dominate would mean that a very different government structure: communism is prominent. This is dangerous because when people don't understand something, there is likelihood for conflict simply based on lack of understanding. The effect of communism of human rights is something to consider as well. Often, communist countries appear wealthy but its people aren't. The question comes, who benefits? When China or any other country begins trade with a less developed country you have to consider the demand of the country and what their goals are in "trading" or interacting with another country. What is the motivation? What influence will China's social policies have on other countries policy adoption?

Referring to the article, for example there is the danger of China's trade in Africa making it appear as if Africa's economy is growing but a lot of the growth is only benefiting the Chinese influence within the country? Another thing to consider is on "what side" Africa will land eventually considering the amount of influence it has from many countries. Will it pick one side or have a mix of the influences?

9/15 Participation Assignment

Patricia McLoughlin

Eve Jones

Mary Albert

Hannah Ranalli

Bernicia Guercio

Part of what could cause a bipolar world would be the anger of China’s advancements in Africa by countries like those involved in the G8. Large countries are comfortable in their roles of power and like to be seen as a more powerful unit then other countries, including China. The expansion of China’s economy may also cause a further divide throughout Africa. There already tensions within countries deciding who they want to align their relations with that do not want China to think that they are too high and mighty. So, an expansion of their economy and increase to China’s ego may discourage some countries from doing business with them.

As countries whose economies were once considered to be developing, like the countries involved in BRICS, grow further they will move up and see an increase in power within their organizations. China will also be trying to take up more space in Africa. African countries already are not happy with how China is using their land without giving the countries proper benefits and with their increase in power they may increase their influence even more. Other countries that are working with China will be pleased with increased benefits and trade with their grown economy. Overall, this could also add to the bipolar divide between countries.  

Human's Have Used All the Earth's Resources for the Year

This article highlights the continued lack of global sustainability practices. This year on August 8th, "Earth Overshoot Day" occurred. This is the annual day where we have used up all of nature's resources for the year, and everyday thereafter is us "overdrafting". Each year, this day occurs earlier and earlier, showing that we are continuing to use Earth's resources at an unsustainable rate. Currently, we need 1.6 Earth's to accommodate the world's resource usage, a figure that is obviously not one the Earth can endure forever. Our ecological footprint is steadily increasing, and there is a drastic need for new climate policies worldwide.

http://motherboard.vice.com/read/humans-have-used-all-the-earths-resources-for-the-year-overshoot-day?trk_source=homepage-lede

The Water Project

The Water Project is a non-profit organization that works to distribute clean water to less-developed communities around the world. A recent project of theirs was the installment of a rainwater catchment system in the Kavumbu Secondary School in Kenya, in addition to a hygiene and sanitation training for all kids. This now provides fresh drinking water and clean toilet water for all students and staff at the school. The community is extremely grateful for this installment because without clean water, it is difficult to run a school. Normally, the school has to buy water and charge the families for it, but now families feel safe sending their children to school and the faculty does not have to worry about meeting basic needs for their students. I find great interest in non-profit water organizations because the lack of fresh water is one of the biggest issues in our world that we actually have the power to fix!

https://thewaterproject.org/community/projects/kenya/rainwater-harvesting-hand-washing-stations-school-project-4501

Smoking and Drinking Rates at a Low- Hannah Ranalli

Hi friends!

I read an article today called Smoking and Drinking Rates Among U.S. Teens Fall to New Lows. It basically stated that the amount of adolescents (age 12-17) reporting to have consumed alcohol has decreased from 17.6% in 2002 to 9.6% in 2015. It also discusses the decrease in smoking and use of drugs among this age group. Although I found it very interesting and encouraging, I decided to post it here because it lacked much statistical evidence to back up these claims and I thought it would be interesting to look more into the validation process.

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/09/09/science/smoking-and-drinking-rates-among-us-teenagers-fall-to-new-lows.html?rref=collection%2Fsectioncollection%2Fhealth&action=click&contentCollection=health&region=rank&module=package&version=highlights&contentPlacement=2&pgtype=sectionfront

Women in Terror Cell Were 'Guided' by ISIS, Paris Prosecutor Says

Hey guys,
I found this article about the increasing amount of terrorism related charges that are being placed on women. This specific article focuses on a group of young french women in Paris and their attempt to carry out multiple attacks by leaving a car filled with gas canisters in the heart of Paris.These women are thought to have been directed to carry out this attack solely from Syria by the Islamic State group. I would definitely recommend that you all check this out!

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/09/10/world/europe/france-paris-isis-terrorism-women.html?ref=europe

Pipeline Construction in North Dakota

This article highlights the ongoing conflict between several Native American tribes in North Dakota and the construction of a new pipeline that would operate through their lands. I found this article interesting based on our recent discussions in class regarding neo-colonialism. This is a great example of a modern issue that stems from the consequences of colonialism in the 1800's. In short, the Native people are peacefully protesting that the construction of the pipeline through certain areas (of what was originally their land) will adversely effect the water supply and has not been properly regulated by the government. Some tribe's reservations are directly by the intended path of the new pipeline. The project claims to be the safest transport option with respect to the environment (better than train, etc.) and that it will alleviate U.S. reliance on foreign oil. In actuality does the economic benefits of the pipeline outweigh the rights of the natives and the environment? This brings about a myriad of legal issues, lawsuits, protests and cultural tension.

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/08/24/us/occupying-the-prairie-tensions-rise-as-tribes-move-to-block-a-pipeline.html?_r=0

Birth Rate Double for Zika Virus

Hey Guys, I found this article today. It is from CNN.com. It is about how more and more babies are being infected with the Zika virus while in the womb. The number of babies who are born in Brazil with Zika has doubled! Unfortunately, Brazil at this time is really struggling with the virus because of poverty and the area closely populated with poor sanitary conditions.

http://www.cnn.com/2016/09/08/health/zika-doubled-brazil-birth-defects/index.html

Robots are changing the way people farm. A Spanish company has designed a machine that picks strawberries. The robot, SW 6010, is equipped with dozens of cameras that are lowered into the plant. They take snapshots of the fruit and pick only the ripe ones. This process takes a total of four seconds. Japan is also making agricultural breakthroughs. By 2017 they plan to have built an autonomous farm. This farm will increase their lettuce productivity from 21,000 heads to 50,000 a day. People will plant the seeds and machines will do everything else.

With populations rising, many people are worried that it will be impossible to feed everybody.   Personally, I think this is an almost comical statement.  We have the ability to feed the world now but people are still starving. Yet people are concerned about feeding future generations. This concern is putting emphasis on genetically modifying foods. Genetically modified foods are many times made to grow bigger, and faster, with little regard for nutrition. Harmful hormones and pesticides are also being used in food production. These hormones and pesticides have similar effects on humans that they do on plants and animals. Hormones in meat is a major cause of children going through puberty sooner than they are emotionally ready for. Pesticides are harmful when ingested and can cause various illnesses. In my opinion farming should be done in a sustainable ways, with respect for consumers, workers, and the environment.

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/robots-are-now-working-down-on-the-farm-2016-07-07?link=sfmw_tw

Why calling the Orlando shooting a hate crime matters: analysis

I came across this article which goes into detail regarding why it is important to label the Orlando shooting as a hate crime. It discusses how some crimes are considered worse than others and therefore, how we name these crimes is of great importance. Since this was a crime against a minority group, it is one that should be taken seriously. It must be considered a hate crime for all of those that felt victimized just for being part of the LGBTQ community.

http://www.msnbc.com/msnbc/mass-shooting-orlando-represents-both-terrorism-and-hate-crime-analysis

Mary Albert current event post

I came across an article releasing information about how Marxist rebels in Colombia released child soldiers as part of a possible peace deal with the government. Some of these child soldiers are as young as 8 years old, not able to then have a real childhood. This an article I would recommend reading.

Heres the link: http://www.cnn.com/2016/09/10/americas/farc-colombia-release-child-soldiers/index.html

DNA from ancient skeletons reveals cause of London's Great Plague

Hey guys. I came across this article that talks about the discovery of the DNA found in ancient skeletons which is responsible for the Great Plague of London. I think that it relates to our class discussions because it mentions events of the past that has affected the way things have developed and that could be used for research to change the future.

Here is the source: http://www.cnn.com/2016/09/09/health/great-plague-of-london-dna-skeletons/index.html

Humans have destroyed a tenth of Earth's wilderness in 25 years – study

A study published recently in Current Biology shows devastating losses of globally significant wilderness areas. Professor William Laurance of James Cook University highlighted reasons for protection of these areas, including: biodiversity, carbon supply, and the fact that poor tribes are living in these wildnerness areas. Between 1993 and today, an area the size of Alaska has been destroyed from human activity. WWF-UK’s director of science and policy has stated about the issue "We need significant changes in how we value our planet as at present we’re taking relentlessly from our oceans, rivers, forests and wilderness."

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2016/sep/08/humans-have-destroyed-a-tenth-of-earths-wilderness-in-25-years-study

Baby boomers reflect on neocolonialism

I saw this article on the Guardian and thought it was a nice compliment to our discussion on colonialism.  Touches on some of the points we discussed, but from the perspective of baby boomers.

Did we baby boomers bring about a revolution in the 60s or just usher in neoliberalism?

Low Income Housing Issues in Pierre, SD

http://www.capjournal.com/news/state-motel-fire-puts-spotlight-on-low-income-housing/article_2281d15c-6f40-11e6-94b4-8f6518506745.html

I was reading this article that covered a recent motel fire in Pierre, South Dakota. This piece focused on how there is a lack of low income housing in the local area, and that when a disaster, such as a fire, gets rid of a large amount low income housing, it leaves low-income residents with no where to go. This article discusses how non-profits such as Habitat for Humanity are acting as a solution by creating affordable housing in the area, but the article also makes it evident that there is a lot more low income housing needed in the area. The article also reflects on the Pierre community, and what actions they want to take in handling this issue. This article is would be especially relevant to someone that wishes to focus on community development in the United States.

Mind Map: Emily, Keyanna, Jenelle, Emily, Eve

MindMap: Bernicia, Carol, Robert, Ryan

Here is our mind map!

Group: Bernicia, Carol, Robert, Ryan

International Blog and Podcast Sites

1. My Heart’s in Accra
Ethan Zuckerman is an academic, blogger and internet activist. He is a senior researcher at the Berkman Centre for Internet and Society and on the board of directors for Global Voices: a global community of citizen media authors. Please also take the time to watch some of his TED lectures. They are superb!

2. Social Media for Good 
As an academic interested in social media and international development this is one of my favourite blogs. It has lots of practical advice on how to improve communications in international development using digital and social media. It is an excellent resource with regular, well researched posts.

3.  Global Voices
Global Voices in an online global community of bloggers who report on citizen media from around the world. It was founded in 2005 by Ethan Zuckerman and Rebecca MacKinnon, has over 500 contributors and is translated into more than 30 different languages. Its goal is to give voices to those not usually heard in the international mainstream media. A superb source of information, often with articles on social media

4. Social Media for International Aid and Development
A great blog on social media and international development with lots of practical advice.

5. DEV Blog
Come on I have to include the DEV Blog as I am the editor  This is a new multi-author blog from the School of International Development, University of East Anglia. The School is a leading global centre of excellence in research and teaching in international development.

6. DFID Bloggers
This is a multi author blog from the UK Department for International Development. There are a mixture of group blogs and individual blogs, many from the field.

7. Poverty Matters
The Guardian’s Global Development Blogosphere. It pulls together blog posts from several partners including DFID, ODI, Global Voices, From Poverty to Power and Texas in Africa etc. The great thing about this blog is that it has a wide audience and therefore you get lots of comments. These comments can often be more interesting than the actual blog post.

8. From Poverty to Power
Written by Duncan Green who is a strategic adviser at Oxfam GB. He is also the author of the book ‘Poverty to Power’ which is where this blog started. Duncan uses his blog to discuss and debate issues from the book. The new 2^nd edition was published earlier this year in October. I would love to interview Duncan one day….

9. Chris Blattman
Chris is an assistant professor of Political Science and Public Affairs at Columbia University. His research examines the causes and consequences of poverty and violence. He is an avid blogger writing about many aspects of international development.

10. Blood and Milk
Alannah Shaikh has worked in international development for over 10 years. Alanna believes that international development should be “efficient, effective and evidence based”. Her posts are eclectic ranging from careers advice to marketing. I like this blog because it offers lots of practical advice.

11.  Staying for Tea

A site with numerous international development blogs and podcasts.

Mary Albert Introduction

Hi my name is Mary Albert. I am a junior here at Penn State with a major in Community, Environment, and Development. I discovered this major last year and loved how it focuses on a sustainable future.

Hello CED230!

My name is Thomas Klinikowski and I am a junior at Penn State majoring in Community and Environmental Development (CED). I am a local meaning I was born and raised in State College, PA, so I've been a Penn State fan long before I started attending this school. I am really interested in not only international development, but domestic development as well. When I graduate from Penn State I either plan to enroll in grad school, or join the peace corps. I would really like to study abroad in a developing nation with the hopes of gaining some skills in bringing communities together before I graduate and enter the real world. I would really like to work with struggling communities in the United States as my profession, but only time will tell what I actually get involved in! Taking CED230 is another step in the direction I want to head in life, and I am very excited to be a part of the coarse. I have a feeling that this course will be very beneficial in providing me with the right information I need to learn about the ways different communities operate across the globe. Outside of school I enjoy skateboarding, playing guitar, as well as listening to many different genres of music. 

Student Introduction: Jenelle Joseph

Hello everyone! I am Jenelle Joseph. I am currently a senior majoring in Community, Environment and Development on the International Development option. I also have two minors in International Studies and Global Health. Thus far, I’ve studied abroad in South Africa and Mexico. Next semester, I will be studying abroad in London and Jamaica. I am interested in community health and community development in the Caribbean region. I believe that this course would give me the opportunity to learn about development issues on a global scale. With a wanderlust spirit, it is important for me to know and understand the challenges that various countries and cultures face.

Robert Krohe Introduction

My name is Robert Krohe, my major is Community Environmental Development with a focus in Community Economic development.  Throughout this class hope to gain better understanding of how communities interact with one another in a international setting.  The reason I am in the CED major is because I plan on working with the Christian church and this major seemed to be the most viable with this goal.
At Penn State I am the Vice President of the Gaming association of Penn State, and the treasurer of Westminster Presbyterian Fellowship.  The gaming association is the board game club at Penn State and WPF is a faith based fellowship group that meets once a week on Wednesdays where we have a good meal and talk about faith in the college world.

Eve Jones Introduction

Hello!

 My name is Eve Jones and I’m a sophomore majoring in CED with a focus in International Development. I hope that over the course of this class I will gain a wider perspective on the various cultures, communities, and challenges faced by countries around the world. The CED major interests me because I love to travel and explore foreign cultures. At Penn State I am also involved in an A cappella group on campus called The Coda Conduct and Penn State’s Community Nutrition and Food Security club. This past summer I interned at an organization called Share Our Strength: No Kid Hungry. Share our Strength is a non-profit organization that works to end childhood hunger in the United States. Over the course of this summer I learned various ways this problem is addressed both nationally and internationally. I’m looking forward to learning more about development around the world and how to better address the problems these communities face.