Designed as a high school elective course, learners will engage in a critical examination of global power dynamics, delving into economic exploitation (labor and resource exploitation), military intervention, cultural dominance, and debt diplomacy to evaluate whether the world has entered a new era of modern or 'contemporary imperialism.’ 

Learners will be tasked with suggesting potential modern-day examples for discussions. This task is not only to promote global awareness but to promote their skills in identifying and utilizing credible sources. Discussions are designed to challenge learners and foster critical thinking skills with an emphasis on formulating independent conclusions. Through thought-provoking discussions and analyses, students will explore various global events and dynamics to draw their own judgments on the complexities of the modern world.

In addition, the class offers the invaluable opportunity for learners to engage in educated and respectful discourse on global issues, emphasizing the importance of backing opinions with facts and sound reasoning. It is designed to foster an environment where all viewpoints can be explored with civility and mutual respect. This approach not only enhances the quality of discussions but also instills a vital life skill of informed analysis and discourse.

In this course, active participation is essential for meaningful engagement and learning. Learners are encouraged to contribute actively to discussions, share their perspectives, and ask questions. This class is best suited for enthusiastic participants who are willing to engage critically with the material and actively contribute to a collaborative learning environment. Given the discussion-based nature of this class and time constraints, please note that the chat feature should be reserved solely for quick questions or clarifications. Lengthy discussions or debates are not suitable utilizing the chat feature.


Tentative Schedule

Week 1: Does imperialism need to be redefined?

Traditionally, privacy laws were designed to protect individuals' personal information in physical contexts, such as medical records or financial transactions. However, with the rise of the internet and digital technologies, the way personal data is collected, stored, and shared has drastically changed. Social media platforms, online shopping, and digital services collect vast amounts of data, raising concerns about privacy and data protection.

In response to these changes, policymakers have had to update traditional definitions of privacy and enact new regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union. These regulations aim to protect individuals' personal data in the digital realm, establishing guidelines for data collection, storage, and consent.

Similarly, if the contemporary world indeed marks a new era of imperialism, traditional definitions of imperialism may need to be revisited and updated to reflect modern realities. 


Week 2: Is neocolonialism a form of modern imperialism?

Neocolonialism is a way powerful countries or corporations indirectly control developing nations economically. We'll explore how this is different from old-style colonialism and investigate if debt, trade deals, and investments are now being used to keep control. Does this power dynamic exist just between rich and poor countries?  Can it happen between powerful ones too? To explore this, learners will suggest and examine real-world examples, like how loans or trade deals affect different countries. 


Week 3: Is resource exploitation a form of modern imperialism?

Learners will explore whether present day resource exploitation aligns with their updated definition of modern imperialism. Using real-world examples, they'll analyze how multinational corporations profit from resources like oil, minerals, and agricultural products in developing countries. In addition, learners will evaluate if similar dynamics occur between developed nations or between multinational companies and developed nations across various levels of resource exploitation to determine if these dynamics also fit their definition.


Week 4: Is labor exploitation a form of modern imperialism?

Learners will delve into the complex issue of labor exploitation by multinational corporations, spanning across both developing and developed countries. They will analyze recent instances where these corporations establish manufacturing facilities in developing nations, taking advantage of lower labor costs, often to the detriment of workers' safety, working hours, and wages. Additionally, learners will examine cases of labor rights violations and exploitation in developed countries, where multinational companies may exploit loopholes in labor laws to maximize profits.

Additionally, learners will explore the historical context of corporate power in global trade, drawing parallels between contemporary multinational corporations and historical trade entities like the Dutch East India Company. Through these discussions and the examination of real-world examples, learners will assess whether labor exploitation constitutes a form of modern imperialism, gaining valuable insights into the inherent power dynamics of multinational corporations and their significant impact on global economic systems.


Week 5: Is military Intervention a form of modern imperialism?

By exploring contemporary examples of military intervention, learners will examine whether these actions are driven by altruistic motives or if various country's have underlying agendas, including securing strategic resources or geopolitical interests. By analyzing real-world events, learners will evaluate the complexities surrounding modern-day imperialism through military means, ultimately determining whether such interventions align with the characteristics of imperialism in the present era.


Week 6: Is cultural dominance a form of modern imperialism?

Learners will delve into the question of whether cultural dominance constitutes a modern form of imperialism. We'll investigate the spread of Western cultural values, norms, and media dominance as a possible manifestation of cultural imperialism. Additionally, learners will examine the potential influence of non-Western countries and evaluate their growing impact on cultural dominance and if this also constitutes modern imperialism. Through the analysis of real-world examples, learners will examine the effects of cultural dominance on local cultures, identities, and traditions to assess whether contemporary cultural dominance patterns align with their characteristics of modern imperialism.


Week 7: Is debt diplomacy a form of modern imperialism?

Learners will investigate debt diplomacy to determine its alignment with modern imperialism. They will examine how powerful nations or financial institutions extend loans to others, potentially influencing domestic policies. By analyzing real-world examples, learners will evaluate the impact of debt diplomacy on both developing and developed nations, aiming to discern its role in the context of contemporary imperialism.


Week 8: Resistance and Alternatives

After concluding their investigation into 'modern imperialism' and under the assumption that learners find some evidence supporting its existence, they will engage in discussions regarding resistance efforts - including, but not limited to grassroots movements, political activism, advocacy for economic justice, and exploring alternative models of development and international cooperation.