How to learn?

[die2live]

Hi guys. I would really like to learn more about social justice and how I can help people in Third Worlds and stuff like that. But I am having a problem on getting educated regarding such things. For instance, I just read a book called "World Hunger: 12 Myths" and it was good and informative, but was written almost a decade ago so I am not certain how much I can trust the information. Most books from the library are older and I don't have the money to buy new books. Does anybody have any thoughts on cheap ways to become more informed? I'm willing to invest the time; I just can't spend the money.

Specifically, I am interested in learning more about sweatshops. I would really like to know which companies are known NOT to use sweatshops, or at least have a reasonably good reputation regarding social justice. I have found a lot of information on companies that DO use sweatshops, which is helpful so I know where not to shop. But for companies that are simply not named, I can't be completely or even reasonably sure that I'm buying fair trade. And I can't buy clothes online; I need to shop in a retail outlet. Anything else, I don't mind buying online.

Sweatshops are just one example. I really want to be more educated all the way around. Any thoughts? Thanks.

 

[2writeabout]

hi, I'm excited that you are wanting to learn about issues of social justice. There are several places, both Christian and non-Christian that are useful sources of information - Amnesty International have a useful website for information on a wide range of matters. If you are based in the USA then Sojourners would be a valuable link to connect with. Several Christian organisations eg the Anabaptists also have websites with information and studies on being Christian and being involved in social justice. See how you go.

 

[2writeabout]

Other links you may find useful is the Evangelical Alliance and TEAR - both Christian organisations with clear focus on socila justice.

 

[die2live]

Thanks, 2writeabout! I got a years subscription to Sojourners for my birthday recently so I am excited about that! I'll look into Amnesty International and TEAR. I appreciate your help.

 

[TG123]

Hi guys. I would really like to learn more about social justice and how I can help people in Third Worlds and stuff like that. But I am having a problem on getting educated regarding such things. For instance, I just read a book called "World Hunger: 12 Myths" and it was good and informative, but was written almost a decade ago so I am not certain how much I can trust the information. Most books from the library are older and I don't have the money to buy new books. Does anybody have any thoughts on cheap ways to become more informed? I'm willing to invest the time; I just can't spend the money.

Specifically, I am interested in learning more about sweatshops. I would really like to know which companies are known NOT to use sweatshops, or at least have a reasonably good reputation regarding social justice. I have found a lot of information on companies that DO use sweatshops, which is helpful so I know where not to shop. But for companies that are simply not named, I can't be completely or even reasonably sure that I'm buying fair trade. And I can't buy clothes online; I need to shop in a retail outlet. Anything else, I don't mind buying online.

Sweatshops are just one example. I really want to be more educated all the way around. Any thoughts? Thanks.

For stuff you can do to live our your faith in Christ by helping others and working to build God's Kingdom, also you can check out the Mennonite Central Committee (mcc.org).

I'm excited you are passionate about following Jesus, sister die2live! Does your church do outreach or social justice stuff? Ask your priest or pastor. See if you can start up a small group if not.

Cristo Vive!
- Tomasz