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Problem Area: Economic and Political...
Online Activities
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Go to the sites listed and find the specific areas mentioned in the capsules below.
- U.S. Dept. of Agriculture
The department's homepage offers news releases, a calendar of events, and speaking engagements of USDA officials. Includes a searchable archive on topics relating to food and the economy. Click on Agencies, Services & Programs; then, scroll down to Food Safety. Click on and examine the mission of the Food Safety and Inspection Service. The next time you purchase some meat or poultry, think about the USDA.
- Council of Economic Advisers
This homepage has details about the council, a high-level body that advises the U.S. President on key issues of economic development. Click on About the CEA. Note the mission of this organization. How do you think this U.S. government body contributes to the economic well being of the nation?
- Accion International
Accion International, a non-profit group, attempts to fight poverty via microlending. They believe that lending as little as $75 can help enterprising people who are opening small businesses. Along with a description of operations, included are news releases and links to Accion programs in Mexico & Central America, South America, and the United States. As explained in the brief description on the Website, this organization attempts to fight poverty via microlending. Click on The World of Microfinance; then Advancing the Field. Do you believe that lending small amounts of money to help enterprising people open small businesses is an effective strategy? Why or why not?
- UNICEF
This homepage of the United Nations Children's Fund has information about participation, organization, and activities. Nearly every American has come in contact with this organization at one time or another, usually in the form of stamps or cards that are offered in exchange for a donation. Click on About UNICEF to find out more about this organization and its mission. How do you feel about the welfare of the children of the world?
- World Bank
This official site has details about country projects, economic sectors, research programs, and a publications catalog. Other international development banks include the Foundation for International Community Assistance [FINCA]--http://www.villagebanking.org/ and the Inter-American Development Bank--http://www.Iadb.org/. Click on About Us; then, under the heading, "What Is The World Bank?" click on World Bank At A Glance and Mission Statement. What are your impressions of the mission of this organization? In view of the current emphasis on globalization (see your textbook's discussion of this topic), do you think organizations like this one are particularly important? Why or why not?
- Amnesty International
This homepage details this human rights organization's campaigns and publications. It also has links to Amnesty International sites in the U.S. and worldwide. The USA branch of Amnesty International specializes in monitoring events relating to the death penalty and police brutality. This organization has led the way in terms of the cause for human rights in the nations of the world. Click on Recent News Releases. After you have familiarized yourself with Amnesty International's mission, comment on whether you believe their activities are essential and/or important.
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