Click on the following links – please note these will open in a new window

Price, T. (August 2014). Global Hunger. CQ Researcher 24(29), 673–696.

global_hunger_Chernotsky2e_CH2.pdf

This article examines the state of global hunger. It provides an overview of who is affected by food insecurity, where, and why. It focuses on major questions about the causes and effects of, as well as potential solutions to, global hunger, including the role of developed countries and their aid policies, effects of climate change, and whether genetically modified crops can help alleviate food insecurity. It assesses some of the policies enacted today, including President Obama’s Feed the Future initiative.

1. Where is hunger geographically concentrated? What do experts say are some of the causes of hunger, and what is the difference between short-term and chronic hunger?
2. Some people criticize the United States’ policy to ship food aid on United States-flagged ships, but other people support this policy. What are the arguments for and against this policy?
3. Dennis Avery, director of the Hudson Center for Global Food Issues, suggests that doubling atmospheric carbon dioxide can be helpful in the fight against global hunger. Why may this increase be helpful? Do scientists agree or disagree, and why?
4. Many people support the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to fight global hunger. What are some of the benefits and drawbacks of GMOs?
5. What is Feed the Future? Do experts think it is effective? Why or why not?

Learning Objectives: To understand the complex nature of global hunger and the international response to it, and to understand and evaluate aid policies.

***

Weeks, J. (2013, June 14). Climate change. CQ Researcher 23(22), 521–544.

climate_change_Chernotsky2e_CH2.pdf

This article examines the growing threat of climate change to the planet. It discusses the call to action to limit global warming to a two degrees Celsius increase, and surveys some of the projects and policies envisioned to curb global warming, including climate engineering and carbon taxes. It outlines the current situation, with a particular emphasis on the United States. It describes the current political environment and public opinion on climate change in the United States, and their effects on public policy.

1. Many officials have called for limiting carbon emissions enough so that global temperatures do not rise more than two degrees Celsius. What policies would governments need to enact to meet this goal? Do scientists think that limiting to two degrees would be helpful? Why or why not?
2. What is climate engineering and some examples of climate engineering schemes? What are some of the benefits and drawbacks of climate engineering?
3. What is the difference between a carbon tax and the cap-and-trade system? Why do officials and activists oppose the cap-and-trade system? Why do businesses oppose the carbon tax?
4. According to public opinion research, Americans are only willing to make minor sacrifices to combat climate change. What could convince Americans that climate change is an imminent threat? Give some examples.

Learning Objective: To understand the current situation in climate change public policy.