Basic Needs

This chapter started out talking about basic needs and whether or not they are a human right. This topic like many others connected to globalization cannot be answered by a simple “yes” or “no.” What are basic needs? Are they the same for everyone? Who is responsible for making sure they’re met? Firstly, I need to establish what I think are basic needs from most important to least, according to the life styles of North American people.

1. Clean water

2. Nutritious Food

3. Heath care

4. Clothing 

5. Housing

6. Personal hygiene

7. Education

8. Socialization (friends, family)

These are what I consider the basic things one needs in order to become successful in Canadian and American society, but I feel that the standards for people in other countries would be much different. For example, the standard of living for housing, clothing and education in parts of Africa are very different in comparison to North America. Obviously clean water, food, clothing and health care are rights that everyone should have, regardless of where you live, because they are crucial for sustaining life. As for responsibility I believe it’s up to the Canadian or American government to care for its citizens. When someone is elected into that position of authority over a country they need to accept responsibility for their people’s wellbeing. As for other counties I can really say who should be held responsible because not all counties have the same standards and customs as Canada and the US.