The True Cost

CAPITALISM, GLOBALISATION AND THE TRUE COST OF CONSUMPTION In this course we will explore the hidden costs of global trade. Our aim is to understand the economic and cultural forces behind globalisation, and so gain a sense of optimism about our role and impact as consumers. You will learn about the economic and social system known as capitalism, the complex nature of globalisation, and the culture of consumerism. View the Student Handbook for project and assessment details.

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LESSON 3: The Triple Bottom Line

In this lesson we discuss the ‘true cost’ of production. The concept of the ‘bottom line’ is introduced, and the process of cost minimisation resulting from the profit motive. Reducing costs means companies are rewarded for using cheap labour and materials - this is effectively a passing on of costs to people or the environment. In order to more accurately measure these hidden costs the concept of Triple Bottom Line accounting is introduced.

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Consumerism

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Wake Up Call

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Jesus Christ With Shopping Bags, by Banksy, 2005

“In this work Banksy is criticizing the commercialism in society and in particular of Christmas. Rather than being a time of focusing on the Christian values of love, charity, compassion and forgiveness, Christmas has become a time of personal gratification through materialistic consumption.  The crucifixion represents how people sacrifice themselves for material things, which ultimately do not bring satisfaction.”

~via StencilRevolution.com

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Instead of glorifying rational choice, we need to look at how choices are often made at an unconscious level and how they are influenced by society at large.

Renata Salecl, The Tyranny of Choice (via revjalen-blog)

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Consume.

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A short introduction to the Cornell Notes system that we’ll be using in class.

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LESSON 2 - Consumerism

In this second lesson we discuss the dominant economic and social culture of capitalism.

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LESSON 1 - The History of Now

In this lesson we discuss the nature of our current social and economic reality - where it came from - and its main characteristics.