As the world evolves and humanity strives to equality the idea of conducting business and trade ethically seems an unrealistic goal. But is this the actual goal we should strive for?
Trade has existed since the beginning of time and we understand this concept as equal exchange of goods. That sounds good in theory, but what we all actually try to achieve is make profit by buying cheap and selling for profit. Basically that means using any means necessary to acquire an item as cheap as possible. Such a concept has been there for a long time just think of all the trade Europeans conducted with natives from all newly discovered lands. Although there are no more lands to discover today people still find ways to get the most out of international trade. In general we all might condemn countries that oppress their people and their civil rights; we still buy items manufactured in these countries. And guess what somebody sells these items and makes a lot of money. One could say they are profiting from the misery of such people. Is it ethical? Probably not most of us sure are happy that such trade exists because it offers a possibility to afford things we might not be able to acquire.
Is child labor illegal and amoral? Of course it is, but answer one question – would such a thing exist if there was no demand for such a thing. As long there will be demand there will always be people who will use child labor and people who will trade such goods. We can found as much charity organizations as we like, the situation will not change until the general opinion of humanity towards such actions changes. Well even if such a thing will ever happen and international trade moves toward equality there will always somebody who, for example, will use extreme dumping and again some people will get screwed over.
Don’t get me wrong I am not ready to jump on a crusader bandwagon and fight for the equality in the world. I am actually the one who enjoys the existing situation. I just don’t like the sanctimony of some people. Do not protest against child labor wearing a T-shirt manufactured in a Philippines factory by an eleven year old child. Many popular and rich people fight civil rights and equality, but I guess it is easy to do so if you are rich.
