Northwood University is kicking off the new school year with a fresh lesson in the Philosophy of Free Enterprise, a free online course for anyone interested learning about the importance of freedom and free-market economics.
“Northwood University is committed to deepening the understanding of free-market principles and their vital role in civil society. The latest lesson in our Philosophy of Free Enterprise course is a testament to this commitment,” stated Northwood Economics Chair Dr. Dale Matcheck. “It reminds us that a good society requires more than mere commercial exchange or government paternalism. It requires personal relationship and voluntary cooperation in pursuit of the common good. We believe that these lessons not only educate but also inspire individuals to actively engage in building a stronger, more vibrant civil society.”
The online course, Philosophy of Free Enterprise, includes a series of complimentary lessons for anyone interested in free-market economics and The Northwood Idea, which is Northwood University’s guiding philosophy. It values freedom, personal responsibility, moral law, earned success, and the importance of business.
Like the other course modules, this newest lesson appeals to viewers from all educational levels and backgrounds. Taught by Dr. Glenn Moots, political science and philosophy chair at Northwood University, the lesson – “Civil Society” — incorporates helpful animation and engaging dialogue delivered in a way that is easy to understand without a college degree.
“Americans want to be free and equal, but their interdependence and independence conflict,” Dr. Moots explains in the new lesson. “The solution is voluntary associations, which constitute what we call ‘civil society.’”
Dr. Moots notes that civil society serves two important ends: It efficiently supplies needs without government, and associating discourages preoccupation with ourselves.
“Not only do the institutions of civil society address many of our physical or economic shortcomings, they also improve our social, emotional or spiritual wellbeing,” Dr. Moots added. “…When people come together out of love or duty or simply because they have shared interest or proximity, they build trust and strengthen the bonds of community.”
The video explores the separate roles of business and civil society and how each depends on the other. Dr. Moots also discusses the difference between civil society and government (which allows for inefficient and unjust processes, as well as unfair political processes – unlike civil society).
“What can you do to build civil society? Work a little less, make new friends, attend some meetings – be a joiner. Maybe find a church, the most popular civil society in America. Ask what you can do to help. Civil society needs you, and free societies need civil society,” Moots concludes.
This new lesson follows several previously shared videos, and Northwood plans to release additional lessons throughout the upcoming academic year. Learners enrolled in the free online course can test their knowledge through quizzes and access thought-provoking supplemental reading material following each lesson. Upon completing the course, learners will earn certificates from Northwood University.
If you are not interested in completing the course but want to view the lectures, the following are available to watch on Northwood University’s YouTube channel:
A Time Traveler’s Brief History of Progress
Prices, Knowledge, & Incentives
The videos and Philosophy of Free Enterprise online course are possible thanks to the principal donors behind this effort, Donald S. Gottwald, a 1988 alumnus, and his wife, Pamela. The effort also was aided by a generous gift from the Thomas F. and Harriet S. Oakley Family Trust.
Donors who value liberty, the American free-enterprise system, and the creation of leaders who drive economic and social progress may consider a gift to Northwood University. Visit our giving page or contact Northwood’s advancement office at (989) 837-4356.
