While a global economy is becoming more and more of a reality, there is a definite choice to be made about how it will come to fruition. Lately, the United States has had a tendency to ignore its domestic market.

While it is true schools – including NIU – have programs that encourage an international work force, no one is looking ahead to what effect this will have. A work force that is encouraged to leave the country it was trained in is a work force detrimental to its country of origin.

The individual may be concerned with making a difference, but people tend to see problems in a wider spectrum. What needs to be considered is a focus on domestic issues that solve economic and social problems at home and provide a nation with the ability to contribute to the global community.

We are filled with the idea of “the big winner” in our society. It’s not a bad idea, but when it comes to thinking of everyone, being a giant success tends to leave some in the dust.

However, there is a solution in sight. If the problem is self-interest, logically, the solution would be developing a stronger communal base.

This is where the debate of the “global citizen” stems. Should a global citizen leave their country of origin or should they work to strengthen the society from which they come? The idea that you can become a global citizen through making it huge in the United States doesn’t provide you with global loyalty. Become a world-renowned master of trade and see exotic lands! Be a Hollywood movie star and buy estates off the coast of the Mediterranean!

The problem with this type of global citizen is the lack of benefit to the globe. Broadening one’s horizons should not just be meant to benefit oneself.

Certain success stories in the U.S. have helped to spread goodwill around the world, but it may not be enough. Take for example Oprah Winfrey’s recent generosity in opening a school in South Africa. A Jan. 18 article published by “The Mercury,” a South African newspaper, notes how some students had to be turned away once the school reached its 1000-student limit.

I will not say the act was not generous or well-meaning; it was. However, if a solution cannot make a complete difference, then it is only treating a symptom.

The best way to secure a global market and make global citizens a reality would be to take the route of the European Union. While separate nations are part of the union they all benefit from the strengths of the others. The euro – the official currency of much of Europe – is currently stronger than the U.S. dollar, proving the argument of a particularly famous European – Winston Churchill – when he said, “Together we stand. Divided we fall.”

People shouldn’t forget they don’t only belong to their own community, but the global community as well. Our actions always have an effect on those around us. Whether it is a global or local effect is up to us. Before we try to single-handedly save the world and improve mankind, perhaps we should remember there are other things we can do.

We can remember our neighbors down the street before we try to influence neighbors an ocean away. A strong domestic market, which is conscious of its role in the global market, is much better than independent people, without constituency, committed to fledgling solutions. If the global economy awaits the United States, then we should have a strong community at home, one that is committed and grounded to a common cause; one which serves its own people to the extent it promises to serve the world.