ABSTRACT

Globalization affects the opportunity space, informational bases, and coordination capacities of states, multinational enterprises, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and citizens. The need for systematic reflection arises in part from what appears to be valid criticisms of political consumerism, especially as committed by individuals. While identity arguments need not be concerned about effectiveness, it is a central question for political consumerism regarded as an instrument for reforming business practices. Political consumers must rely for fact-finding on NGOs such as Amnesty International, Transparency International, and Consumers International. Other self-expressive actions may best be regarded as Expressions of Mutual Respect. Other acts of political consumerism seek to reform business practices. If global markets are to be normatively justified, the responsibilities for re-distribution and prevention of harm must be borne by agents other than the state—namely corporations and consumers. Democratic accountability may not be equally important for such agents of civil society.