Peace Through Commerce

University of San Diego: GSBA 507
Author: Dimon, Denise
Source: University of San Diego: School of Business Administration
Year: 2011

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Abstract:

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This course looks at the role of business and other economic organizations in fostering peace. Peace is defined to mean more than the absence of war. Until people's human rights are respected, basic needs met, justice grounded in institutions and organizations, we cannot have peace and hope for a safer world. When people live on the brink of poverty, income disparity prevails, corruption and injustice are a way of life, and people see no economic opportunities for the future, there will be no peace. What is the role of business in fostering peace? How can businesses and other economic organizations prosper while at the same time assure sustainability by creating peace? Are economic opportunities being overlooked by firms and organizations with their current way of thinking? These questions and others are addressed in this course.

This course focuses on how changing political environments affect business strategies and competitive advantage of domestic and international firms. It also analyzes the ways in which businesses contribute to the peace and prosperity of the global community through commerce. The course will explore issues such as changing political ideologies, assessing and managing a nation's political risk, environmental issues, trade tensions between countries, regional blocs, role of the WTO and other international institutions, impact of TRIPS and other intellectual property related reforms on international firms. The course will cover the political and economic debate regarding outsourcing and its impact on developing countries. Students will study the political and business environment of BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India and China) countries and learn to develop win-win business strategies both for business success and raising the living standards of emerging economies.