Global Ethics and Sustainable Development for a Just Future
1. Our World: A Global Village
1.1. Why Do We Need a Global Ethic?
In the late sixties, Marshall McLuhan introduced the idea of the “global village,” suggesting that human intercommunication is increasingly shaped by global electronic media. McLuhan argued that information highways transcend natural boundaries, making us all citizens of the world. However, media can also be used to shape opinions and influence actions based on specific interests.
Media = A World Informed by New Technologies
To navigate this global village responsibly, we need a global ethic – a social consensus on fundamental values, rights, and duties. This shared understanding should be universally accepted by individuals and social groups alike.
2. Allocation of Resources
Economic, technological, and social advancements in developed countries have fueled the rise of a consumer society. Approximately 15% of the world’s population consumes 60% of the goods and services produced globally.
2.1. Consumerism and Poverty Coexist in an Unequal World
While consumerism and hedonism thrive in developed nations, poverty persists in the developing world. This disparity continues to widen, creating a gap that is increasingly difficult to bridge.
Causes:
- Economic Dependence
- Technological Dependence
- Economic Protectionism
- Political Corruption
2.2. Towards Social Justice
These inequalities are unjust. We must strive for greater social justice and build a more equitable society for all, working to overcome the social and economic disparities around us. This begins with recognizing the inherent dignity and value of each person, treating everyone as equals, and demanding equal opportunities for all.
A First Step: Fair Trade
The economic and quality-of-life differences between the Global North and South are increasingly alarming. Unfair trade practices contribute significantly to these inequalities. Fair trade offers a potential solution.
Fair Trade vs. Conventional Trade
Principles of Fair Trade:
- Producers organized into cooperatives for greater bargaining power
- Rejection of child labor
- Equality between men and women
- Respect for workers’ rights
- Elimination of intermediaries
- Fair wages for a decent living
- Respect for the environment and ecological practices
3. Culture of Peace
Peace is the presence of justice at all levels, without discrimination. This new social order allows for the free development of individuals and societies, ultimately leading to harmony between individuals, nature, and society. A culture of peace involves creating conditions based on mutual trust and cooperation to build a more just and lasting peace.
Sharing in the Culture of Peace:
- Promoting a culture of peace through education
- Promoting economic and social development
- Promoting respect for human life, dignity, and all human rights
- Ensuring equality between women and men
- Promoting democratic participation
- Promoting understanding, tolerance, and solidarity
- Supporting participatory communication and the free flow of information and knowledge
- Promoting peace and security
Important Note: All armed conflicts have a devastating human cost:
- Violation of the right to life, disproportionately affecting civilians, especially the most vulnerable
- Violation of civil and political rights: torture, sexual abuse, displacement, kidnappings, disappearances
- Violation of social and economic rights: deprivation of livelihood, denial of healthcare, education, and international aid
4. Sustainable Development
4.1. What is Sustainable Development?
Industrialization and economic development have raised concerns about the negative consequences of unchecked growth. Sustainable development seeks to balance economic progress with environmental protection and social equity.
Economic Dimension:
- Energy Efficiency
- Humane and Environmentally Friendly Technology
- Sustainable Transportation
- Responsible Construction Management
Environmental Dimension:
- Rational Waste Management (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover)
- Preserving the Planet for Future Generations
Social Dimension:
- Poverty Reduction
- Solidarity and Justice
4.2. Why is it Necessary to Promote Sustainable Development?
Human survival depends on our efforts to protect our species and the planet. Promoting sustainable development means acting responsibly to ensure that our actions are compatible with the long-term health of the Earth. Since 1972, various initiatives have sought to define and promote sustainable development, including the Meadows Report (1972), the Rio Earth Summit (1992), and the Johannesburg Summit (2002).
5. One Possible Future: Rights of Present Generations Towards Future Generations
Article 1: Needs and Interests of Future Generations
Present generations have the responsibility to safeguard the needs and interests of both present and future generations.
Article 4: Preservation of Life on Earth
Present generations must bequeath a planet that is not irreversibly damaged by human activity. Each generation should use natural resources responsibly and ensure that life is not compromised by harmful modifications to ecosystems. Scientific and technological progress should not threaten life on Earth.
Article 6: Human Genome and Biodiversity
We must protect the human genome while respecting human dignity and rights, and preserve biodiversity. Scientific and technological advancements should not jeopardize the preservation of the human species or other species.
Article 7: Cultural Diversity and Cultural Heritage
Present generations should preserve the cultural diversity of humankind while respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms. We have a responsibility to identify, protect, and preserve tangible and intangible cultural heritage for future generations.
Article 10: Development and Education
- Present generations should strive for equitable, sustainable, and universal economic development, using resources responsibly to combat poverty.
- Education is crucial for human and societal development and should be used to promote peace, justice, understanding, tolerance, and the well-being of present and future generations.