Lots of different opinions in class led to a lively discussion. We discussed allocation of a scarce resource–first in the abstract when I brought in 2 pieces of candy for a class of 18. We compared that to how to allocate tickets for Hamilton in Philly, Tickets for Shakespeare in the Park in NY, health care, education, food and shelter. I injected social justice questions whenever possible, which led nicely into Corporate Social Responsibility.
Really “ripped from the headlines,” as the CEO of Walmart just announced that the store would stop selling ammunition that can be used in military-style assault rifles. We did discussed whether this was just to increase bottom line or for the common good. Then we talked about what it ought to be–most thought the former. We read parts of Milton Friedman’s classic “The Social Responsibility of Business is to Increase its Profits,” published in the New York Times Magazine in 1970. Most students agreed.
We continue next week with Corporate Social Responsibility. Then we’ll try something new. In small groups, students will open the New York Times(required reading for the course) and rip something from the headlines and see how the discussion goes. A work in progress.