CHANGE IN ASSIGNMENT: I'm changing the first assignment for the class. I had originally planned for you to write a paper that dissected "conflicting or confused media accounts of globalization." That's out.

Instead, my assignment will be for you to write a 2,500 word essay on the following question:

"How has globalization contributed to the wealth or poverty of nations?"

You should feel encouraged to cite articles or books from beyond the classroom, but it is not necessary. This assignment will be due THURSDAY, MAY 1ST.

Oh, one other thing. The reason I've chosen this question is that there's an on-line essay contest that will award $10,000 in total prizes to the best essays answering this question.

You don't have to submit the essay to the contest, but you're certainly encouraged to do so.