Angela Miles, professor of adult education at the Ontario Institute for Studies and Education, gave an informative discussion about the effects of globalization and ethnocentrism Wednesday night in the Clara Sperling Skyroom at the Holmes Student Center.

Miles focused on a critical analysis of advanced industrial societies, globalization and international development.

This is the first of two seminars that are part of the 21st Annual Midwest Research to Practice Conference in Adult Continuing and Community Education.

Miles stressed the importance of roles that adult educators play in analyzing and teaching the aspects of globalization and ethnocentrism.

Miles stated that “public wealth is a cost and a dream.” She added that amidst the struggle for economic power, there is still a continuing colonization of women, land, communities and cultures.

Later in the discussion, Miles concluded that human life is being commodified as a new frontier for capitalization. Miles used genetic modification and corporations such as BioTech to exemplify the benefactors of a policy that eventually will result in devastating consequences.

Miles also said that military spending overrides the importance of reducing poverty. Miles feels that if government spending was used wisely, it would reduce the poverty rate substantially.

Immigrants are coming to the United States in search of finding economic wealth.

“They’re dying to leave what they love behind because they think they can establish economic growth in the U.S.,” she said.

Miles emphasized that ethnocentrism is one of the driving forces behind terrorist acts and why the U.S. and other countries constantly are arming themselves for war.

Along with adult educators, NIU freshmen contributed their opinions about the role of the U.S. and the after-effects of Sept. 11.

Freshman psychology major Nancy Botta said Miles’ seminar was insightful, yet she seemed biased in her viewpoints.

“I thought she was anti-government and anti-capitalization, and she feels that capitalization ruins the social structure,” Botta said.

Freshman sociology major Nick Rusin agreed that Miles’ lecture did not state accurate facts.

“I thought that she was very anti-military, although without the military more people would die,” Rusin said.

Freshman history major, Phillip Bolos said Miles should have provided reasonable facts to support her argument.

“I think she was telling one side of the story because there is a lot more that goes on,” Bolos said.

Miles will host the second part of the seminar 7 p.m today at the Clara Sperling Skyroom.