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New research shows that being a woman or racial minority can help someone stand out and be remembered in academia, but they are more likely to be confused in settings where others share the same attributes. This bias in memory could contribute to discrimination and hurt chances of being recruited for a job or invited to collaborate or give a talk. Learn more about the implications of this research on career advancement.
How poverty, education, discrimination, and mental health affect incarceration rates. Explore the causes and costs of the "justice" system.
Companies are increasingly taking action on social issues due to external pressure, according to Wharton management professor Stephanie Creary. This shift has been particularly notable in the past two years following the murder of George Floyd, with investors and consumers demanding greater transparency and authenticity. Companies are recognizing the linkages between their activities and social issues and the importance of environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG). While some companies may engage in lip service, the tide is turning, as demonstrated by the rise of roles such as director of employee activism.
Food has the power to bring people together. Sharing a meal can be an opportunity for connection, communication, and celebration. It can also be a way to address social issues and build stronger communities. In this write-up, we'll explore the ways in which food can break down barriers and bring people together, using interesting facts, statistics, stories, and examples from real life. We'll also explain some relevant academic terms and concepts, and highlight the contributions of leading academics in the field. Social scientists have studied the relationship between food and community building for decades. They have found that communal eating promotes social bonding, and can even enhance group cooperation and teamwork. The sharing of food can also be a way to build bridges between diverse communities, promoting understanding and empathy. In many cultures, food is a central part of social and religious rituals. It is used to mark important occasions and bring people together in celebration. In the United States, Thanksgiving is a prime example of this. Families and friends gather to share a meal and express gratitude for one another. Food can also be used as a tool for social change. Many community organizations use food to address issues of food insecurity and social justice. For example, community gardens and farmers' markets can provide fresh, healthy food to underserved neighborhoods. Food co-ops and community kitchens can provide job training and support to low-income individuals. Leading academics in the field, such as Dr. Raj Patel, have written extensively about the ways in which food can be used to address social and environmental issues. Dr. Patel argues that food is a lens through which we can understand broader social and economic systems. He believes that by changing our relationship with food, we can create a more just and sustainable world. Food truly has the power to bring people together, break down barriers, and create positive social change. Through reading, reflection, and self-directed projects, high school students can explore this important topic in-depth and learn how they can contribute to building stronger, more connected communities.
A black couple's home was undervalued by almost half a million dollars due to their race. With only 7.6% of appraisers being non-white, this story highlights the systemic racism in the real estate industry. Learn about their experiment and the shocking results that led to a lawsuit settlement.
Do you have a passion for social justice and a desire to make a difference in the world? If so, a career as a Human Rights Officer might be the perfect fit for you. As a Human Rights Officer, you will work to ensure that people's basic rights are protected, regardless of their race, gender, religion, or nationality. Human Rights Officers work in a variety of settings, including non-governmental organizations, government agencies, and international organizations like the United Nations. They may work on issues such as gender equality, refugee rights, freedom of speech, and more. Some of the most appealing aspects of this career include the opportunity to work on meaningful and impactful projects, the chance to travel and work with people from all over the world, and the ability to make a real difference in people's lives. Typical duties of a Human Rights Officer might include conducting research, investigating human rights abuses, working with local communities to raise awareness of human rights issues, and advocating for policy changes at the local, national, and international levels. There are also many areas of specialization within the field, such as working on issues related to women's rights, children's rights, or environmental justice. To become a Human Rights Officer, you will typically need a degree in a related field such as international relations, political science, or law. Some popular undergraduate programs and majors include Human Rights Studies, Global Studies, and International Development. In addition to formal education, there are several personal attributes that can be helpful in this field. These include strong communication skills, empathy and compassion, cultural sensitivity, and a passion for social justice. Job prospects for Human Rights Officers are strong, with many opportunities available in both the public and private sectors. Some notable employers include the United Nations, Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and the International Committee of the Red Cross. So if you're looking for a career that allows you to make a real difference in the world, consider becoming a Human Rights Officer. With the right education, skills, and passion, you can help to ensure that everyone's basic human rights are protected and respected.
Urban inequalities refer to the disparities and imbalances in opportunities, resources, and outcomes among different groups of people living in urban areas. This includes issues such as poverty, housing insecurity, racial and ethnic disparities, access to education and healthcare, and more. One of the leading academics in the field is sociologist and author, Loic Wacquant. Wacquant argues that the root causes of urban inequalities can be traced to broader social, political and economic structures and processes. He has written extensively on the ways in which the state and market forces interact to produce and reinforce urban inequalities, particularly in the global North. Another important figure in the study of urban inequalities is economic geographer David Harvey. Harvey has famously argued that urban inequalities are a result of the way that capitalism functions, and has developed the concept of "spatial fixes" to describe how capital seeks out new and profitable opportunities in the urban environment. The statistics on urban inequalities are staggering. For example, it has been estimated that in the United States, the poverty rate for urban residents is over double that of rural residents. Median incomes in rural areas of the Northeast and Midwest ($62,291 and $55,704 respectively) were higher than in the regions’ urban areas ($60,655 and $51,266) while that in the South and West ($50,989 and $58,541) were higher than in rural areas ($46,891 and $56,061). However, across all four regions, poverty rates were consistently lower for rural residents. In many cities around the world, racial and ethnic minorities are more likely to live in poverty and experience housing insecurity. The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated these disparities, with low-income urban residents being disproportionately affected. Despite the challenges, there are also inspiring stories of communities and individuals working to address urban inequalities. For example, community-led organizations in cities like Detroit and Baltimore are working to revitalize neighbourhoods and provide resources and support to residents. Activists and advocates are also pushing for policy changes at the local, state and national levels to address the root causes of urban inequalities.
Do you want to make a real difference in the world? William MacAskill's "Doing Good Better" challenges us to move beyond our emotions and assumptions to make the most effective altruistic decisions. By asking five key questions, he shows us how to maximize our impact regardless of our resources. Did you know that becoming a plastic surgeon could save more lives than becoming a heart surgeon? Or that measuring a charity's overhead costs is an inaccurate gauge of its effectiveness? With evidence-based reasoning, this book will change the way you think about doing good. Recommended for anyone who wants to make a positive impact in the world, "Doing Good Better" is a must-read for students, professionals, and activists alike. This book will be particularly relevant to those interested in fields such as public policy, philanthropy, and international development. It will also appeal to those who are passionate about social justice, environmentalism, and animal welfare. By challenging assumptions and encouraging evidence-based reasoning, MacAskill's book provides a framework for anyone looking to make a difference in the world.
Xenophobia is the fear and hatred of foreigners, and it has a long history. In today's political climate, it is shaping political debates and causing harm to marginalized groups. Though it is not the same as racism, the two are often related. Xenophobic fears are easy to stir when inequality increases, and the pain felt by the so-called natives is turned onto the foreigner. However, society can tackle this trend by being more equal and providing for all. Learning about xenophobia and its effects can help us understand the world around us and work towards a more inclusive society. By exploring academic concepts like xenophobia, we can gain a deeper understanding of the world and the issues that affect us. This understanding can help us become more empathetic and informed citizens, and ultimately lead to a better world for all.
When we think of governance, we often imagine a group of officials making decisions on behalf of a larger population. But there's another approach to governance that's gaining attention: multi-stakeholder governance. What is multi-stakeholder governance, and how does it differ from traditional forms of governance? At its core, multi-stakeholder governance is about collaboration between different groups of stakeholders to make decisions that affect them all. Instead of a top-down approach, where decisions are made by a single group, multi-stakeholder governance involves a variety of stakeholders, including government officials, non-governmental organizations, businesses, and community members. One of the key benefits of multi-stakeholder governance is that it can lead to more effective and equitable decision-making. By bringing together diverse perspectives and experiences, multi-stakeholder governance can help ensure that everyone's voice is heard and that decisions reflect the needs and concerns of all stakeholders. This approach can be particularly effective in addressing complex issues that require a broad range of expertise and input. But multi-stakeholder governance isn't without its challenges. Collaboration can be difficult, and finding common ground among different stakeholders can be a time-consuming and complex process. In addition, power imbalances can arise, with some stakeholders having more influence or resources than others. Despite these challenges, multi-stakeholder governance has gained traction in a variety of sectors, from environmental management to public health. For example, the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a multi-stakeholder governance initiative that promotes responsible forest management by bringing together environmental, social, and economic stakeholders. The Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI) is another multi-stakeholder initiative that works to increase access to immunization in low-income countries. Leading academics in the field of multi-stakeholder governance include Elinor Ostrom, who won the Nobel Prize in Economics in 2009 for her work on the governance of common-pool resources, and Mark Anner, who has researched multi-stakeholder governance in global supply chains. In conclusion, multi-stakeholder governance is a unique approach to decision-making that emphasizes collaboration and inclusivity. While it presents some challenges, it has the potential to be a powerful tool for addressing complex issues and ensuring that all voices are heard. By exploring examples such as the FSC and GAVI, and learning from leading academics such as Ostrom and Anner, students can gain a deeper understanding of this important concept and its potential to make a positive impact in the world.
Efficiency and equality are two fundamental concepts in social and economic policy that often come into conflict. Efficiency is the ability to produce goods or services with minimum waste, while equality refers to the fair distribution of resources among individuals. The trade-off between these two concepts is a persistent issue in the contemporary world, and it has important implications for social justice, economic growth, and political stability. In recent decades, the pursuit of efficiency has become a dominant theme in public policy, as governments and organizations seek to optimize their operations to achieve greater productivity, profitability, and innovation. However, this drive towards efficiency has also contributed to rising inequality, as the benefits of technological progress and globalization have disproportionately flowed to the top earners, while many low-skilled workers have faced declining wages, job insecurity, and social exclusion. This tension between efficiency and equality is not a new phenomenon. In the 19th century, the economist Vilfredo Pareto observed that economic progress often involved a redistribution of wealth from the poor to the rich, which he dubbed the "law of the vital few." Similarly, the philosopher John Rawls argued that a just society should prioritize the well-being of the least advantaged members, rather than maximizing aggregate welfare. The debate over the optimal balance between efficiency and equality has given rise to various schools of thought and policy proposals. Some proponents of efficiency argue that it is necessary to stimulate growth and innovation, which can eventually benefit everyone. Others advocate for a more redistributive approach, such as progressive taxation, social welfare programs, or universal basic income, to reduce inequality and ensure that the benefits of economic growth are shared more equitably. The trade-off between efficiency and equality is a complex and ongoing challenge for policymakers and citizens alike, but striking a good balance is one of the crucial factors of good policy-making.
If you have a passion for making a positive impact on society and shaping the world we live in, then a career in public policy might be the perfect fit for you. Public policy professionals work in a wide range of fields, from government and non-profit organizations to international organizations and think tanks. Their work involves analyzing social and economic issues, developing policies, and implementing solutions that address complex problems facing society. One of the most appealing aspects of a career in public policy is the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people's lives. Public policy professionals can work on issues such as climate change, poverty, education, and healthcare, among others. For instance, they can advocate for environmental protection policies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impact of climate change, or they can develop programs that increase access to healthcare services for underserved communities. As a public policy professional, your typical duties might include conducting research, analyzing data, and working with stakeholders to develop policies that address a specific issue or problem. You may also be responsible for evaluating the effectiveness of existing policies and proposing improvements. Depending on your interests and strengths, you can specialize in a particular area of public policy, such as healthcare, education, environmental policy, or international relations. To pursue a career in public policy, you typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as political science, economics, or public administration. Some popular undergraduate programs and majors in this field include Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Bachelor of Science in Public Policy, Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Bachelor of Science in Public Administration. In addition to academic credentials, public policy professionals need certain personal attributes to be successful. These include strong analytical and critical thinking skills, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and a commitment to public service and social justice. The job prospects for public policy professionals are excellent, with a wide range of employers across the public and private sectors. Some notable employers in this field include the United Nations, the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the U.S. Department of State..
Why have so many Native Americans fought for a country that has colonized and broken promises to them for centuries? The Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian is exploring this question in a new book and exhibition, "Why We Serve: Native Americans in the United States Armed Forces". The book highlights the unique traditions and motivations that Indigenous people bring to their military service, challenging stereotypes and shedding light on a long history of devotion to the U.S. military.
Environmental justice is the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of race, color, national origin, or income, in the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies. Examining the intersection of race, class, and climate change is important because environmental degradation and climate change have a disproportionate impact on communities of color and low-income communities. In this write-up, we will explore the concept of environmental justice and its implications. Environmental justice is a relatively new field, having emerged in the 1980s in response to the environmental and health hazards facing marginalized communities. The term was first coined by Dr. Benjamin Chavis, Jr., who was the director of the United Church of Christ's Commission for Racial Justice at the time. Since then, the field has grown and gained recognition from scholars, policymakers, and activists. One of the key concepts in environmental justice is the idea of "environmental racism," which refers to the disproportionate impact of environmental hazards on different communities of color. For example, a study by the University of Michigan found that African Americans are more likely to live near toxic waste sites than any other racial group in the United States. Similarly, a report by the NAACP found that coal-fired power plants are more likely to be located in low-income communities and communities of color. Another important concept is "climate justice," which recognizes that the impacts of climate change are not evenly distributed and that vulnerable populations are more likely to be affected. For example, a report by the Union of Concerned Scientists found that low-income communities and communities of color are more likely to experience extreme heat, which is linked to climate change. Scholars and activists have developed various strategies to address environmental justice, including community-based participatory research, policy advocacy, and grassroots organization. One of the leading scholars in the field is Dr. Robert Bullard, who is often referred to as the "father of environmental justice." Dr. Bullard has written extensively on the topic and has been instrumental in raising awareness and advancing policies that promote environmental justice. In conclusion, environmental justice is an important field that examines the intersection of race, class, and climate change. Through an understanding of environmental justice, we can work towards a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
Are you looking for a career that combines your passion for justice with a desire to make a positive impact on your community? If so, a career as a magistrate might be just what you're looking for! As a magistrate, you'll be responsible for presiding over cases in a court of law, making decisions on matters such as bail, sentencing, and civil disputes. But being a magistrate is so much more than just sitting behind a bench and making decisions. You'll be an integral part of the justice system, working to ensure that everyone who comes before the court is treated fairly and with respect. One of the most appealing aspects of a career as a magistrate is the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives. Whether you're helping a victim of crime get the justice they deserve, or working to ensure that a defendant receives a fair trial, you'll be making a meaningful impact on your community every day. In addition to the satisfaction that comes from helping others, a career as a magistrate also offers a wide variety of potential specializations. From criminal law to family law and everything in between, there's no shortage of areas in which you can specialize and make your mark. To become a magistrate, you'll typically need a law degree and several years of experience practicing law. Popular undergraduate programs and majors for those interested in this career include pre-law, criminal justice, and political science. In addition to the necessary education and experience, there are certain personal attributes that can be helpful in a career as a magistrate. These include strong analytical skills, excellent communication skills, and the ability to remain impartial and fair in all situations. Job prospects for magistrates are generally quite good, with a steady demand for these professionals in both the public and private sectors. Some notable employers in this field include the United States Department of Justice, the United Nations, and various state and local court systems around the world. So if you're looking for a career that combines your passion for justice with the opportunity to make a real impact on your community, consider becoming a magistrate. With hard work, dedication, and a commitment to fairness and impartiality, you can make a real difference in the lives of others every day.
Do you have a passion for justice and a desire to make a difference in the world? If so, studying Criminal Law at university undergraduate level may be the perfect choice for you. Criminal Law is a fascinating field of study that involves the examination of laws, regulations, and procedures related to criminal offenses. One of the most appealing aspects of studying Criminal Law is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on society. Criminal Law plays a crucial role in maintaining social order and ensuring that justice is served. From high profile cases that capture the attention of the world to everyday cases that impact local communities, Criminal Law is an essential part of our legal system. In addition to its importance, Criminal Law is also a field that is constantly evolving. There are always new innovations and research being conducted, and the academic discourse surrounding Criminal Law is dynamic and engaging. Some of the most well-known figures in Criminal Law, such as William Blackstone and Cesare Beccaria, have made significant contributions to the field that continue to shape the way we think about crime and punishment. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take courses in topics such as criminal procedure, evidence, and substantive criminal law. There are also opportunities for students to specialize in areas such as white-collar crime, international criminal law, and criminal justice policy. These areas of specialization can lead to exciting careers in fields such as law enforcement, legal advocacy, and public policy. Speaking of careers, there are many potential job opportunities for graduates of Criminal Law programs. Some of the most popular career paths include criminal defense attorney, prosecutor, and judge. However, Criminal Law graduates can also find employment in fields such as law enforcement, corrections, and victim advocacy. Notable employers in this field include the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Department of Justice, and law firms specializing in criminal defense or prosecution. To succeed in Criminal Law, it is important to have strong critical thinking and analytical skills. Attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and a passion for justice are also essential attributes for success in this field. If you are ready to make a difference in the world and pursue a career in Criminal Law, then this field of study may be the perfect choice for you.
Rural areas face unique challenges in accessing support and navigating the welfare system, leading to increased poverty and vulnerability. Newcastle University's research highlights the importance of local knowledge and community organizations in addressing financial hardship in rural areas. Find out how policies can be improved to better support those living in remote and island areas.
Queen Elizabeth II's death marked a new era for the 54 Commonwealth countries. Learn about the organization's evolution from the British Empire's disintegration to its modern-day form. Discover the push for self-governance and rising nationalism in the dominions that sparked the British Commonwealth of Nations' founding. Find out how India's independence movement led to the Commonwealth's modern-day form. Explore the organization's role in protecting the environment, boosting trade, and supporting democracy throughout the world.
Gentrification is a complex and controversial issue that is affecting cities all around the world. It refers to the process of renovating and improving a run-down urban neighborhood, often resulting in the displacement of low-income residents and small businesses as the neighborhood becomes more attractive to affluent newcomers. One of the leading academics in the field of gentrification studies is Dr. David Harvey, a geographer and sociologist who has written extensively on the topic. In his book, "The Right to the City," Harvey argues that gentrification represents a violation of the "right to the city" for marginalized communities who are pushed out of their neighborhoods as a result. The impact of gentrification on equality can be significant. As low-income residents are forced to move out of gentrifying neighborhoods, they often face challenges finding affordable housing elsewhere, leading to increased homelessness and housing insecurity. Additionally, the loss of diverse communities and small businesses can have a negative impact on cultural richness and local economies. One example of the impact of gentrification can be seen in San Francisco, where the city's African American population declined from 13.4% in 1970 to just 5.8% in 2010 as a result of gentrification and displacement. In London, a similar pattern can be seen, with a report by the Greater London Authority finding that the number of ethnic minority households in the city's inner boroughs has declined by over 50% since the 1980s due to gentrification. These are just a few examples. Explore this interesting and complex topic more and play your part in helping communities grow sustainably and equitably.
Have you ever wondered why some CEOs earn hundreds of times more than their employees? In recent years, the topic of excessive CEO compensation has gained widespread attention and sparked intense debate. While some argue that CEOs deserve high pay for their leadership and contributions to their companies' success, others believe that such compensation is unjustified and contributes to economic inequality. In this write-up, we will explore the justifications for and advances in the area of excessive CEO compensation, and discuss the impact it has on the economy and society at large. One common argument in favor of excessive CEO compensation is that it serves as an incentive for CEOs to work harder and make better decisions. Supporters of this view believe that the promise of a large salary and bonuses motivates CEOs to maximize their companies' profits and shareholder value. However, critics argue that this argument is flawed, as there is little evidence to suggest that higher pay leads to better performance. In fact, some studies have found that excessive CEO compensation can lead to short-term thinking, risk-taking, and unethical behavior. In recent years, there have been several advances in the area of excessive CEO compensation. One significant development is the increased attention and scrutiny placed on CEO pay by shareholders, activists, and the media. This has led to a greater focus on the link between CEO pay and company performance, as well as the need for greater transparency and accountability in executive compensation. Another development is the rise of shareholder activism, in which investors use their power to influence companies' decisions on CEO pay and other issues. To fully understand the topic of excessive CEO compensation, it is important to be familiar with certain academic terms and concepts. One such term is "pay ratio," which refers to the ratio of CEO pay to median employee pay. Another important concept is "stock options," which are a form of executive compensation that gives CEOs the right to buy company stock at a set price. Additionally, "agency theory" is a key concept that is used to explain and resolve issues in the relationship between CEOs and their companies' shareholders. Several leading academics have made significant contributions to the study of excessive CEO compensation. One of these scholars is Lucian Bebchuk, a professor at Harvard Law School who has written extensively on the topic. Bebchuk argues that excessive CEO pay can lead to a misalignment of interests between executives and shareholders, and calls for reforms to address this issue. Another important academic in this area is Steven N. Kaplan, a professor at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Kaplan's research focuses on the link between CEO pay and company performance, and he has found that the relationship between the two is more complex than previously thought. Excessive CEO compensation is a complex and controversial topic that has significant implications for the economy and society.
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