Keough, O'Neill, Duncan, Welsh Family, McGlinn, Ryan

The night after Thomas Friedman’s “Global Marketplace and the Common Good,” students from West Quad gathered for a discussion about the previous evening’s topics. Students became increasingly reflective as Friedman’s main points were unpacked and discussed in open dialogue. As the conversation progressed, it became apparent that the group was concerned with Friedman’s thesis about the Flat World. While the group acknowledged that globalization can be beneficial for developing countries, and especially for companies willing to expand internationally, it feared the equalizing connotations of an economically and technologically equalized world. Repeatedly, the group referred to the example of China. Given that China is a burgeoning economic force with a population of capable individuals ever motivated by a demanding culture, the students feared that America could someday be viewed as second to China. They expressed urgency for real political and economic revolution in the United States to ensure American global prominence. Additionally, the group discussed Friedman’s views on a Green Revolution. As young, motivated, idealistic individuals, the members of the group expressed genuine concerns for the environment and America’s energy future. The group discussed clean energy alternatives, and voiced questions about options for a cleaner energy plan. The group left the discussion without any definite answers about America and the evolving global marketplace and clean energy. Rather, the constructive discussion created more insightful questions: What motivation is necessary to catalyze a green revolution in America? How can America induce its youth to develop strategies to maintain American hegemony and market power?