Meets the following requirements: HS   

This course provides students with knowledge of the history, theoretical foundations,  opportunities, and practices of socially responsible business. The course is designed for students who desire a general understanding and fluency in the topic, would like to be more socially proactive consumers, want to foster socially-responsible business as community activists, or are considering starting or working in a socially responsible business. The way business is structured has tremendous societal ramifications; inventions and industries from the automobile to the internet have affected everything from air quality to economic and political freedom. Consumers, activists, and entrepreneurs have a tremendous opportunity to rethink the way business is conducted and change the practice of  business in ways that are beneficial to society and the environment while providing living wages and sustaining communities  This course will draw heavily on the ideas and writings of revolutionary business thinkers such as Paul Hawken, Amory and Hunter Lovins, Michael Shuman, and William McDonough. Through cases, projects and present day examples involving business such as Ben and Jerry's, Deja Shoe, Honest Tea, and O'Naturals, the course will challenge students to understand the impact of business on society. In addition, it will offer new frameworks for creating new business ventures which capitalize on social values to gain competitive advantage and increase financial and social value. Guest speakers and trips to representative businesses will be integrated into the course as much as possible. Evaluation will be based on class participation, written and/or presented analyses of case studies, and projects leading to the  development of a hypothetical or real business plan.

Level:   Introductory. Lab fee $20.00. *HS*