Introduction
Thompson offers a unique perspective and modern view of the incorporation of faith and justice. It is very difficult to exist in a world with quick economical advancements and globalization works without considering the aspect of spiritual belief. This paper discusses the history of colonialism according to Thompson together with the effects of multi-national corporations on host countries.
History of Colonialism
The history of colonialism, as described by Thompson, bases its argument on the social cohesion in countries of Africa. During the pre-colonial times, there was little social cohesion due to ethnic differences. Africa, as a continent, consists of fifty four countries. Each country is rich and diverse in its own culture. There diversity in culture is brought about by the numerous tribes, for example, Kenya is known to have forty two different tribes.
Colonialism in Africa first started at around the eighteenth century. Ethnicity, which has been described as a subjective conviction of commonality, was used to make policies during colonization. The lack of social stability and harmony presented opportunities for exploitation. Policies of divide and rule were invented resulting in constant wars and feuds between the different ethnic groups in the countries.
During the early twentieth century, literacy began to gain weight and value among the inhabitants of the countries. By about 1920, college education was introduced in several countries. It was not until the 1950s that the countries under colonial rule began to awaken from their divide and conquer rule. They realized that it would be better for them to unite against their oppressors and gain their independence. They realized that their little solidarity and unpracticed nationwide loyalty due to its many ethnic communities was doing them more harm than good. Colonialism finally ended in the late twentieth century (Thompson, 1997).
Effects of Multi-national Corporations on Host Countries
Multi-national corporations provide employment in the host countries. They offer a wide range of income generating activities that prove useful to the inhabitants of the countries. They tend to oversee the economic growth of a country by influencing the per capita income. Despite ensuring steady positive economic growth, it would be preferable also if the multi-national corporations offered additional incentives to the host countries. There are certain financial demands levied on multi-national corporations that may prove taxing to the inhabitants of the country. For example, the taxation rates placed on imports and exports may prove to be overwhelming. Oftentimes, the price of economic and financial globalization proves steep for developing countries (Thompson, 1997).
When it comes to multi-national corporations, it would be preferable if there were certain deductions that could be made by the countries in order to control extreme financial mishaps. Thompson recommends lowering tariffs on imported goods, removing restrictions on investments, getting rid of quotas and domestic monopolies, increasing exports, privatizing state-owned industries and utilities (Thompson, 1997). By doing this, investments in neighborhoods of employees will prove beneficial and non-exploitative as before. Multi-national corporations are responsible for welfare of host countries since they account for 25% of world produce and 70% of world trade.
Conclusion
Thompson has found an effective way to enhance justice and peace in economic growth of the world. He does this by analyzing the past and forecasting what the future
Reference
Thompson, J. M. (1997). Justice and peace: A Christian Primer (2nd ed.). New York, NY: Orbis Books.