Given the nature of the Fair Trade business model, including the advantages and the disadvantages put forth in the article on Fair Trade practices, does the fair trade business model seem like it can and will be successful at helping economies of developing nations? Are there ways in which you would alter it to make it more effective? Think about it from both the perspective of the real business owners trying to help while still maintaining their business and profits, and from the perspective of the farm owners from developing nations.
When and how can aid work? Compare Collier, Sachs and Moyo in your discussion.
What is conditionality? why has it gotten a bad name?
Why do neighbors matter to developing nations? Which of Collier’s strategies to address the liability of a “bad neighborhood” makes most sense – why?
Why are developing nations so vulnerable to civil war, and to coups? What are the costs of these wars? To what extent, and in what ways, do you believe outside, “neutral” forces should intervene?
Do you agree with Moyo’s recommendations concerning the Chinese? What if any concerns to you have about these new investors in Africa?
Jeffrey Sachs offers a positive plan to end poverty in his 2005 book. How reliant is his plan on aid? What are the most appealing parts of this plan to you? What are your three most pressing questions/concerns about this plan?
Do you agree with Moyo’s argument that aid is not working and cannot work? Why or why not?
Would you advise leaders of developing nations to embrace investment from China and/or India? Why or why not?
NYT: Middle East
