Introduction
The books Sex Trafficking by Kara and Disposable People by Bales are essential in times of economic uncertainty and human rights violations since they illuminate the acute nature of these issues.
Summary of Chapters
Sex Trafficking
For instance, in Chapter 8, Kara author argues that current measures to prevent sex trafficking are insufficient, and four stages should be implemented to end slavery (Kara, 2010). First, it will be crucial to figure out how much it currently costs to get caught (Kara, 2010). Second, it is essential to understand to what extent it can compromise profits (Kara, 2010). The third step revolves around raising the cost of getting caught (Kara, 2010). Finally, implementing the plan is the fourth step (Kara, 2010). Overall, all steps are meant to work together to increase efficacy.
Disposable People
Another chapter that shares similar perspectives is Chapter 7 by Bales. According to the author, the old slavery was altered, and the new slavery was created by three essential elements (Bales, 2012). The first is population growth, which has thrown millions of impoverished and vulnerable people into the global labor markets (Bales, 2012). The second is agricultural mechanization and economic globalization, which has displaced impoverished farmers and left them open to forced labor (Bales, 2012). The third element is the turmoil of violence, corruption, and greed brought about by economic shifts in many developing nations (Bales, 2012). As a result, people must take responsibility for addressing the issue.
Critical Evaluation
Sex Trafficking
Regarding the critical evaluation of Kara’s questions, the author argues that increasing penalties can be a helpful measure. At the same time, while this might be one way to solve the problem, it is crucial to take into account the intricate socioeconomic aspects that lead to sex trafficking and look into all-encompassing strategies that can bring systemic change. For instance, empowering survivors and delving into root causes can be helpful. Kara’s perspective misses one valuable aspect: broader social, cultural, and gender dynamics.
Disposable People
As for Bales’ ideas, with the author’s advocacy for change and emphasis on factors that lead to new slavery, other approaches can be added. For example, gender inequality and the demand for cheap labor can be addressed. Bales’ perspective is valuable and highlights that individual responsibility to address issues is a human rights matter.
Implications
As for the implications of the chapters, Kara’s material has implications for policy and law enforcement efforts, necessitating international cooperation. Meanwhile, Bales’ implications are similarly focused on global governance and human rights advocacy.
Similarities and Differences
Speaking of similarities, both works recognize the effects and dangers of exploitation and human trafficking. However, the difference is that Kara’s work focuses more on economic aspects, and Bales’ piece gives a broader socioeconomic review.
Links Between the Readings, Own Experiences, and Events in the News
Overall, such pieces are connected to my experiences since I observed disparities in opportunity and wealth in developing countries and how they affected local populations. Moving forward, the given readings are connected to nationwide news. For instance, recently, the Office of Public Affairs published news stating that a motel manager in Georgia was arrested for human trafficking and forced labor (Office of Public Affairs, 2023). Kara’s view is that the financial penalty was used. In addition, Bales’ perspective, which highlights a violation of people from developing countries, was also involved.
Conclusion
Overall, after reading both chapters, some questions remain. For instance, after reading Kara’s chapter, the question remains to what extent the penalty should be increased. In addition, after reading Bales’ chapter, the question is whether there are specific mechanisms that can help protect vulnerable populations. Future studies should investigate the effectiveness and reliability of Kara’s and Bales’ frameworks in various environments and assess their influence on traffickers, survivors, and the general incidence of sexual trafficking and slavery.
References
Bales, K. (2012). Disposable people: New slavery in the global economy. University of California Press.
Office of Public Affairs. (2023). Georgia motel manager sentenced for trafficking and forced labor of victim. Web.
Kara, S. (2010). Sex trafficking: Inside the business of modern slavery. Columbia University Press.