ECONOMY, ECOLOGY, AND ENRICHMENT
BY FRANK STRONACH
May 2024
Headline: Integrating the Missing Curriculum of Constructing an Ideal Society into Higher Education
Article: Frank Stronach: Universities should forge a vision for the ideal Canada Universities have long been celebrated for their role in preparing students for professional careers, yet they possess the untapped potential to address broader, more profound societal questions.
Universities are well-regarded for their robust programs in law, medicine, engineering, and other key professions that support the structural and functional needs of society. However, they often miss a crucial area of academic exploration—the study of constructing an ideal society. This concept was not only a pivotal part of Plato’s academy some 2,400 years ago but also remains a vital topic today. Plato’s curriculum included rigorous discussions on justice, harmony, and the greater good, aiming to define what constitutes a just and moral state.
Today, there is a growing need for universities to integrate these philosophical inquiries into their educational offerings more deeply. By doing so, they could equip students not just with job-specific skills, but with the vision and knowledge to contribute effectively to the broader societal good. The challenge for contemporary higher education is to inspire students to think critically about what makes a society thrive and how they can be agents of positive change.
Incorporating courses that focus on the philosophy of society, ethics, and leadership could provide students with a holistic view of their roles within the world, beyond their professional capacities. These courses could discuss various models of governance, economic systems, and social policies, analyzing what has succeeded or failed across different contexts and times. Moreover, this academic pursuit could foster a more engaged and informed citizenry, capable of contributing to democratic processes and societal reform with a well-rounded understanding of the complexities of modern governance and societal needs.
Furthermore, universities have the resources, intellectual capital, and environments conducive to fostering such expansive learning. They can create interdisciplinary programs that not only ponder but also experiment with innovative solutions to societal issues, bridging theory with practical, actionable strategies. By doing so, universities could lead the charge in molding not only future professionals but also visionary leaders and thinkers who are committed to the pursuit of an ideal society, where freedom, peace, and prosperity are attainable for all.
Headline: Skilled Trades Propel Sustainable Future Amid Growing Environmental Challenges
Article: Frank Stronach: Skilled trades could solve the Canadian happiness deficit The essential role of tradespeople in constructing and maintaining sustainable infrastructure is pivotal for ecological resilience.
Skilled trades are indispensable not just for the economic fabric of our communities but also for their ecological sustainability. Tradespeople are integral to the construction and maintenance of essential infrastructure such as homes, roads, and public utilities, which must be built to meet the growing demands for environmental sustainability. These professionals apply their skills to ensure that these structures are energy-efficient, use sustainable materials, and incorporate green technologies, which are crucial for reducing our carbon footprint.
The impact of skilled trades on environmental sustainability extends beyond construction. For instance, electricians and HVAC technicians play a vital role in installing and maintaining energy-efficient systems that significantly reduce energy consumption in buildings. Plumbers are crucial in managing water resources through the installation of water-efficient systems, which are essential for conserving this vital resource. The expertise of these trades is not only essential for maintaining the day-to-day operations of these systems but is also critical in upgrading old infrastructures to meet new environmental standards.
Moreover, the current shortage of skilled tradespeople poses significant challenges to ecological efforts. This deficit can lead to delayed construction and maintenance of environmentally critical projects, inefficient energy use, and prolonged use of outdated, polluting technologies. Such delays can exacerbate environmental issues, such as increased greenhouse gas emissions and greater overall environmental degradation.
Recognizing the importance of trades in supporting sustainable development goals, there is an urgent need to bolster the workforce in this sector. This includes not only increasing the number of trained professionals but also ensuring that they are equipped with the latest knowledge and technologies in sustainability practices. Providing enhanced training and continuing education in green techniques will enable tradespeople to lead the way in ecological conservation and innovation, ensuring that our infrastructures are not just built to last but are also built for a sustainable future.
Headline: Small Businesses Catalyze Community Revitalization Amidst Regulatory Challenges
Article: Frank Stronach: Liberal budget the nail in the coffin of small businesses Small businesses in the foodservice industry are integral to fostering cultural richness and economic vitality within local communities.
The culinary sector, made up largely of small businesses such as cafes, restaurants, and local food markets, plays a pivotal role in the social and economic fabric of communities. These establishments do much more than serve food; they are gathering places that offer unique dining experiences and are crucial in preserving and promoting local cuisines. By doing so, they help maintain cultural diversity, offering residents and visitors alike a taste of local heritage through culinary explorations.
Additionally, these small businesses are significant employment generators. They often provide the first job opportunities for young people and are important for the employment of a range of other community members, including newcomers who may find opportunities in these settings to be particularly accessible. Beyond job creation, these businesses frequently support local agriculture by sourcing ingredients locally, thereby fostering a sustainable local economy and reducing environmental impacts associated with long-distance transportation of goods.
However, the vibrant role of these small enterprises in urban and rural development is currently under threat due to stringent economic policies and an increasing regulatory burden. For instance, measures such as the increase in the capital gains tax and excessive bureaucratic hurdles can stifle the growth of these businesses. Such policies not only affect the financial viability of these establishments but also limit their capacity to invest in community-based projects, innovate their services, and expand their reach.
Despite these challenges, small culinary businesses continue to strive for excellence, adapting their models to meet changing regulations and economic pressures. They remain dedicated to enriching their communities, contributing to local economies, and enhancing the gastronomic landscape. Nonetheless, without reconsideration of current policies and a reduction in regulatory constraints, these vital contributors to community well-being and cultural diversity risk a decline in their ability to operate effectively and profitably. Moving forward, it is essential for policymakers to recognize and support the unique role that these businesses play in the enrichment of our society.