Portfolio Assignment

SUS1501 – Sustainability and Greed

Full Names: Fundiswa Felisia Zungu

By submitting this portfolio, I implicitly declare that this is my own work except for the
“Introduction” which was kindly written for me by my lecturer.

I am aware that if ANY unacknowledged copying is detected in ANY answer, I will get 0 (zero)
for the entire assignment.

Instructions:

• Please read the instructions on myUnisa carefully.

• Please download the most up-to-date version of this template from your group site on myUnisa.

• Go through the MCQs again, and record your current choice in the template (we suggest that
you don’t look at your original choices before you have been through all questions)

• For each question, record your original choice in assignment 1.

• Write a note of AT LEAST 100 words for each of the five (5) questions that are written in red.

• Write a note of AT LEAST 100 words each for any other five (5) questions of your choice.

• Write your conclusion of AT LEAST 500 words

• Somewhere within your notes and/or conclusion there must be meaningful references to the
major theories that we covered (deontology, consequentialism, distributive justice, virtue ethics
and environmental ethics).

• Your notes and conclusion should also make reference to discussions with fellow students that
you found meaningful.
 • Save the file as a Word document with a short name (myUnisa will reject files with long names).

• Submit this file into the Assignments tool on myUnisa.

• Take a screen grab of the final submission acknowledgement on myUnisa and save this
somewhere safe in case of any disputes.

• Check under the Assignments tool that there is a date in the “Processed” cell for the SUS1501
Portfolio.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS CHECKLIST – i.e. if you do not fulfill ALL of these you will NOT pass this
portfolio:

1. Correct template version used

2. All 20 multiple choice question original answers captured ✓

3. All 20 multiple choice question answers now captured

4. Notes for the five (5) questions in red

5. Notes for AT LEAST five (5) other questions of your choice

6. Each note AT LEAST 100 words long

7. Conclusion present

8. Conclusion AT LEAST 500 words long

My aim in compiling this portfolio was to reflect on the things that have struck me throughout
this crazy module.

My starting point for doing this was to revisit my opinions to the multiple choice questions
which were presented in the Crossroads assignment. I present these current opinions, together
with my original opinions, and some brief notes in the section entitled: “Back at the
Crossroads!”

Once I have done this, I draw some key conclusions about this crazy module and about the
things that did indeed strike me.

Back at the Crossroads!

1. (YOU MUST WRITE NOTES ON THIS QUESTION) “It’s easier to imagine the end of the world than the
end of capitalism.” (Mark Fisher) My personal opinion on this statement, is most closely described
by:

a. Who cares?

b. This is what comes from a world population that believes that the path to enlightenment is
Twitter.

c. Capitalism is absolutely the only viable economic system, so yes, this is true and right.

d. I had never thought of this, but as unreasonable as this might sound, it is actually so true.

e. I think that we need to work on our imagination then because this is clearly absurd.

Choice now: D

Choice in assignment 1: A

Notes: Upon contemplation, I find myself resonating with option d, which suggests a realization of the
truth behind Fisher’s statement, despite its initial absurdity. Fisher’s assertion delves into the profound
and deep influence of capitalism in our collective consciousness, shading light on the challenge of
envisioning alternatives within a system that permeates every aspect of our existence. It calls for a
reevaluation and thinking of our imaginative capacities and a recognition and acknowledgement of the
entrenched nature of capitalism embedded within societal structures. Embracing this perspective
prompts a critical examination of the status quo and fosters the exploration of alternative economic
paradigms

2. (YOU MUST WRITE NOTES ON THIS QUESTION) “Black lives matter.” My personal opinion on this
statement is most closely described by:

a. So do white lives matter

b. “All lives matter.”

c. The problem is that at the moment this is not supported by evidence.

d. Finally we are starting to recognise this!

e. Slogans are pointless. We need to enforce radical social changes aimed at actively
destroying structural racism.

Choice now: D

Choice in assignment 1: E

Notes: Choosing option d demonstrates a nuanced grasp of the profound societal implications
encapsulated within the assertion “Black lives matter.” Engaging in substantive discourse and
introspective contemplation has enabled me to discern the critical importance of acknowledging and
redressing the systemic injustices endured by Black communities, from the past to the present. This
acknowledgment marks a crucial stride towards cultivating societal fairness and dismantling the deeply
ingrained structures of racism that persist to this day. Thus, endorsing the proclamation “Black lives
matter” signifies a steadfast dedication to advancing social justice and championing transformative
initiatives or approaches aimed at eradicating racial disparities.

[Word count: 95]

3. (YOU MUST WRITE NOTES ON THIS QUESTION) “In order to have the continued opportunity to
express their ‘generosity,’ the oppressors must perpetuate injustice as well.” (Paulo Freire) My
personal opinion on this statement is most closely described by:

a. This is crazy ‘commie’ nonsense from Freire – it’s a disgrace that Unisa allows this rubbish to
appear in its official study material.
 b. This is rubbish - if it were not for the essential goodness of the wealthy, the lives of the poor
would be so much worse than they already are.

c. So let me get this straight – Freire is saying that in order for some to continue being
generous (like Bill Gates), wealth AND poverty need to be sustained? I’m going to have to
think about this.

d. Freire is absolutely right - all this ‘generosity’ just makes rich people look like the heroes
when actually they are the villains.

e. How can you possibly say something as ungrateful as option d?

Choice now: D

Choice in assignment 1: D

Notes: Upon deep reflection on Freire’s assertion, I am drawn towards option d, which perceptively
acknowledges the covert perpetuation of systemic oppression disguised as acts of philanthropy. Delving
into meaningful dialogues and contemplating diverse viewpoints has provided profound insights into the
intricate web of power dynamics and privilege deeply embedded within societal frameworks. Freire’s
statement serves as a poignant catalyst for introspection, compelling us to confront the ethical paradox
of generosity intertwined with injustice. It prompts us to critically examine the underlying motives and
implications of benevolent gestures within systems rife with inequality, shedding light on the inherent
complexities of navigating moral dilemmas in contexts of systemic oppression.

4. (YOU MUST WRITE NOTES ON THIS QUESTION) “If the present growth trends in world population,
industrialization, pollution, food production, and resource depletion continue unchanged, the limits
to growth on this planet will be reached sometime within the next one hundred years. The most
probable result will be a rather sudden and uncontrollable decline in both population and industrial
capacity.” (The Limits to Growth, 1972) My personal opinion on this statement is most closely
described by:

a. I don’t believe this tale of doom.

b. Yes we are consuming natural resources too fast, but I don’t think this is a problem as there
is plenty of time to find technological solutions to problems that emerge

c. Yes we are consuming natural resources too fast. The first priority in solving this is to put the
brakes on human population growth.

d. Yes we are consuming natural resources too fast. The first priority in solving this is for rich
people to reduce their consumption significantly.

e. Yes we are consuming natural resources too fast. The first priority is for poor people to not
have more kids than they can afford.
 f. Yes we are consuming natural resources too fast. And frankly I don’t see any solution
because increasing consumption is the basis of our economic growth.

Choice now: C

Choice in assignment 1: F

Notes: Considering the profound implications outlined in “The Limits to Growth,” option c emerges as a
better response that underscores the urgency of addressing unsustainable consumption patterns. 100
years might not be a lot but keeping in mind that an average life span of a individual in SA is 65, given
the data is correct that is 2 life circles. Given engaging in scholarly discourse and reflecting on
environmental stewardship has elucidated the interconnectedness of human activities and ecological
systems. Therefore, advocating for prioritizing measures to curb population growth aligns with the
imperative of fostering ecological sustainability and mitigating the adverse impacts of resource
depletion.

5. (YOU MUST WRITE NOTES ON THIS QUESTION) “Show me a great fortune and I’ll show you a great
crime.” (a translation from Honoré de Balzac) My personal opinion on this statement is most closely
described by:

a. Clearly Balzac had taken too much hashish when he wrote that!

b. It is completely possible to make a fortune by legal means – in fact this is what I intend to do
in my life.

c. I don't care - watch out Elon Musk, here I come!

d. I think that this is absolutely true.

e. Even if great fortunes are acquired in a technically legal way, they are always morally
problematic.

Choice now: E

Choice in assignment 1: C

Notes: Reflecting on Balzac’s assertion, option e emerges as a profound recognition of the ethical
intricacies entwined with the accumulation of vast wealth. Through introspective contemplation and
scholarly exchanges, I have gained insights into the systemic disparities and moral ambiguities inherent
in the pursuit of immense fortunes. Upon closer examination, it becomes apparent that behind the
façade of wealth lie layers of ethical dilemmas and potential legal gray areas. One need only glance at
the profiles of prominent individuals to discern instances where moral ambiguities shroud their amassed
fortunes. Thus, endorsing the idea that great fortunes are inherently morally problematic underscores a
commitment to ethical scrutiny and social responsibility in navigating economic endeavors. By
acknowledging the ethical complexities surrounding wealth accumulation, we strive towards a more
conscientious and equitable economic landscape, one that prioritizes ethical conduct and societal well-
being over individual prosperity.

6. "Save the rhino!!" My personal opinion on this statement is most closely described by:

a. Who cares?

b. Let the people who want to use this resource pay to protect it.

c. We have bigger problems than worrying about rhinos.

d. We must save the rhinos for our children.

e. We must save the rhinos because it is the right thing to do.

Choice now: E

Choice in assignment 1: E

Notes: Reflecting on discussions forums with peers and further research of my own, I have come to
appreciate the moral imperative behind conservation efforts, such as saving the rhino. Beyond the
intrinsic value of preserving biodiversity, there is a deeper ethical responsibility to protect vulnerable
species from exploitation and extinction. The plight of the rhino symbolizes larger environmental issues
and our collective duty to steward and protect the natural world for future generations and prevent
endangered species from extinction. Therefore, advocating for rhino conservation aligns with principles
of environmental ethics and reflects a broader commitment to ecological sustainability and moral
responsibility.

7. "You won’t make the poor rich by making the rich poorer." (Winston Churchill) My personal opinion
of what should be done is most closely described by:
a. This is rubbish and we should attack extreme wealth wherever it arises.
b. This is the sort of trite rhetoric that the rich try and sell to the world in order to protect their
privilege.
c. This is rubbish. If a few take a huge share, it leaves that much less for the rest. It’s simple
maths.
d. This is absolutely true. Without the money that the rich have, the poor would be that much
worse off and lefty socialists would do well to understand this fact.
e. Since my personal aim is to be rich, my opinion here is simple – just leave the rich alone.

Choice now: D

Choice in assignment 1: D
Notes: Upon thorough reconsideration and meaningful dialogues with peers, I have come to a deeper
understanding of the intricate nature of poverty and wealth inequality. It is evident that merely
redistributing wealth may not serve as a panacea for poverty alleviation; rather, it is imperative to
acknowledge and address the underlying systemic factors that perpetuate inequality. To effectively
combat poverty, we must confront structural barriers, foster equitable opportunities, and enact social
policies that prioritize economic justice. By tackling poverty at its roots and dismantling the structural
inequalities ingrained within our societal systems, we can strive towards a more equitable future.
Churchill’s statement resonates as a call for holistic approaches that target both the symptoms and the
root causes of poverty, emphasizing the necessity of comprehensive strategies to foster sustainable
socioeconomic development and mitigate wealth disparities.

8. “Of the top 10 wealthiest people (all men), eight are tech billionaires. Their net worth is US$ 1.1
trillion or ZAR 22 trillion!” My personal opinion on this statement is most closely described by:

a. I think that such wealth is utterly immoral when there is so much poverty and suffering in
the world and so active steps should be taken to correct this.

b. These billionaires are all tech visionaries and deserve every cent of their wealth because of
their brilliance.

c. Why would anyone want or need that amount of money?

d. These are my heroes. I aspire to be like them.

e. Bill Gates is one of them and look at how much money he is giving to the poor through the
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

Choice now: B

Choice in assignment 1: B

Notes: Upon deep reflection and a thorough examination of the principles of distributive justice, I have
arrived at the conclusion that the concentration of extreme wealth presents a significant moral
dilemma, particularly when juxtaposed with pervasive poverty and inequality. This realization is
underscored by the stark disparities in wealth distribution, which lay bare the systemic injustices
inherent within economic structures that prioritize the relentless accumulation of capital at the expense
of equitable distribution. I acknowledge that addressing wealth inequality necessitates a fundamental
reevaluation of societal values and the implementation of progressive taxation policies that aim to
rectify these imbalances and promote social welfare and economic justice. Consequently, advocating for
wealth redistribution emerges as a moral imperative aligned with the principles of distributive justice,
challenging the ethical legitimacy of unchecked wealth accumulation.
9. “60% of the world’s cobalt is mined in the DRC. Significant amounts of this is mined under appalling
conditions often by child labourers.” My personal opinion on this statement is most closely
described by:

a. What’s cobalt got to do with to me?

b. The DRC is a long way from where I live so I don’t really care.

c. This is just a fact of global supply chains and necessary for global economic growth, which is
in everyone’s best interest.

d. I wonder who is profiting out of this?

e. It breaks my heart to see children exploited. This is morally wrong and must not be allowed.

Choice now: E

Choice in assignment 1: E

Notes: The exploitation of child laborers and the appalling working conditions in cobalt mining not only
highlight immediate humanitarian concerns but also serve as poignant reminders of the broader societal
injustices and economic exploitations that persist in our global supply chains. As conscientious
consumers, we carry a profound moral obligation to actively champion ethical sourcing practices and
endorse initiatives that uphold fair labor standards and human rights protections. Our consumer choices
wield significant influence, empowering us to leverage our purchasing power to boycott products
tainted by child labor and exploitation. Thus, by condemning such egregious practices and advocating
for the ethical sourcing of products, we align ourselves with the fundamental principles of social
responsibility and distributive justice.

10. “Imagine you find out that some students get together, buy good assignments from previous years
and submit them as their own.” My personal opinion about this practice is most closely described
by:

a. I have heard that Unisa might be using sophisticated plagiarism detecting software like
Turnitin and, if this is the case, the chances of getting caught are just too great. I don't want
to get into trouble.

b. Not only will I participate, I am going to be the one who sells assignments next year for cash.

c. I am not sure what the rules say but if this is against the rules I won’t do it.

d. I am not sure what is the right thing to do here or what is expected of me now that I know
this?

e. The problem with cheating is that it undermines everyone's qualification, not just those who
are participating
 f. Someone needs to report this because it is intellectual fraud, and that someone is going to
be me.

Choice now: F

Choice in assignment 1: E

Notes: My current stance on this matter aligns with option f, emphasizing the imperative of integrity
and academic honesty. Upon reflection and engaging in discussions regarding ethical conduct, I’ve come
to recognize the detrimental impact of academic dishonesty on the integrity of educational institutions
and the value of qualifications earned. As a conscientious student, I acknowledge the importance of
upholding academic standards and deterring intellectual fraud. Therefore, taking a proactive stance
against such unethical practices by reporting instances of academic dishonesty is not only a moral
obligation but also a means of safeguarding the credibility and integrity of the academic community as a
whole.

11. “Investment under neo-colonialism increases rather than decreases the gap between rich and poor
countries.” (Kwame Nkrumah) My personal opinion on this statement, is most closely described by:

a. Get over colonialism now!!!!

b. It’s irresponsible messages like these that frighten foreign investors away from Africa.

c. Colonialism died off decades ago. Why are you still talking about this.

d. Absolutely. As Thomas Sankara said: “debt is a cleverly managed re-conquest of Africa”

e. This is all managed through ratings agencies who have much more say in the decisions a
government takes than the citizens of the country.

Choice now: D

Choice in assignment 1: E

Notes:

12. "The wealth of the few depends upon the poverty of many." My personal opinion on this statement
is most closely described by:

a. So long as I am amongst the few I don't care

b. This is just not true – the rich are simply more “diligent, intelligent, and above all frugal”.

c. This is just not true – if it were not for the generous wealthy, the poor would be even poorer
than they are.
 d. This is absolutely true – there is only so much wealth in the world at any one moment so if
one person has more than their share someone else has to have less than their share.

e. This is absolutely true and given how much poverty there is we ought to do something
about it.

Choice now: E

Choice in assignment 1: C

Notes:

13. “It is estimated that humans are consuming natural resource at a rate that is 30% above the renewal
rate. If we continue to consume in this way we are likely to suffer dire consequences which could
include extinction.” My personal opinion on this statement is most closely described by:

a. Yes we are consuming natural resources too fast, but I don’t think this is a problem as there
is plenty of time to find technological solutions to problems that emerge

b. Yes we are consuming natural resources too fast. The first priority in solving this is to put the
brakes on human population growth.

c. Yes we are consuming natural resources too fast. The first priority in solving this is for rich
people to reduce their consumption significantly.

d. Yes we are consuming natural resources too fast. And frankly I don’t see any solution
because increasing consumption is the basis of our economic growth.

e. I don’t believe this tale of doom.

Choice now: D

Choice in assignment 1: D

Notes:

14. “Even before COVID, one out of every five South Africans lived below the food poverty line.” My
personal opinion on this statement is most closely described by:

a. Who cares?

b. If population growth rates of the poor were not so high they wouldn’t be so poor.

c. If they worked harder, they wouldn't be so poor.

d. This is sad, but to be honest, it is not going to stop me from focusing on my own wellbeing
first.

e. I think that we must all strive to eliminate poverty together.

Choice in assignment 1: E

Notes:

15. “Save the 5 000 Eastern gorilla!!!” My personal opinion on this statement is most closely described
by:

a. Why?

b. I really have never bothered to think about gorillas.

c. Let the DRC and Rwanda deal with this problem – Eastern gorillas are their natural
resources.

d. Morally we must save the Eastern gorilla.

e. We must save Eastern gorillas because their survival is critical for sustaining healthy
ecosystems.

Choice now: E

Choice in assignment 1: E

Notes:

16. “Why do some people have to be miserably poor in order that others can be extravagantly rich? I
speak for all the children in the world who don't even have a piece of bread.” (Fidel Castro) My
personal opinion on this statement, is most closely described by:

a. Who cares what Castro said? He was an ideological dinosaur anyway.

b. Wealth and poverty are unrelated phenomena.

c. Well perhaps the rich should just stop all their charity and we’ll see where this leaves the
ungrateful poor.

d. Well on a simple technical level, the answer to this is poverty and wealth are both relative
so it’s just not possible for there to be someone rich without someone who is relatively
poor.

e. I think this is the wrong question. The right question is: “How do we prevent people being
extravagantly rich while others are miserably poor?”

Choice now: D
Choice in assignment 1: E

Notes:

17. “Unless fossil-fuel use slows dramatically, the earth’s average temperature could rise by six degrees
Celsius in the next 100 years.” My personal opinion on this statement is most closely described by:

a. Who cares?

b. I don’t believe this climate change nonsense

c. Six degrees will make winters much more bearable to me personally

d. I’m a bit concerned about this, but there is nothing that I can do about it

e. I’m a bit concerned about this, but why should I invest my personal time, effort or money in
solving a general social problem

f. I think that individually we can and should strive to solve this problem for the greater good

Choice now: F

Choice in assignment 1: E

Notes:

18. “Every day some 20,000 children die prematurely from poverty related causes, mostly treatable
diseases.” My personal opinion on this statement is most closely described by:

a. Who cares?

b. It’s hard to say it, but given the rising human population, perhaps this is a blessing in
disguise for the human species as a whole

c. It’s hard to say it, but this just means less people competing with me for scarce
opportunities and resources.

d. This is morally wrong, but practically, I think that it would cost too much money to solve

e. It is morally unacceptable for a single child to die of a preventable disease and we should
collectively fix this irrespective of the cost.

Choice now: E

Choice in assignment 1: E

Notes:
19. “In the 2018/2019 financial year, Bob van Dijk, the CEO of Naspers earned a total remuneration
(salary, incentives and options) of R 1.9 billion.” My personal opinion on this statement is most
closely described by:

a. Good for him – he worked hard to earn this.

b. The only problem I have with this is that this money is in van Dijk’s bank account and not in
mine.

c. No problem with this. I'm sure van Dijk donates huge amounts to charity.

d. I think that it is morally wrong for anyone to earn that much money.

e. I think that active steps should be taken to correct such immoral executive remuneration
practices

Choice now: D

Choice in assignment 1: A

Notes:

20. “Austerity: the billionaires in business have convinced the millionaires in government that the
working poor are the root cause of all problems ” My personal opinion of what should be done, is
most closely described by:

a. As Julius Malema says: “Bloody agents”

b. And then the Houses of Parliament get burned down because ‘the root cause of all
problems’ was solved by the millionaires in government’ retrenching security guards.

c. And then the billionaires in business declare the millionaires in government incompetent
when the Houses of Parliament get burned down.

d. This is typical labour union clap-trap.

e. As Bill Gates says: “If you were born poor it’s not your mistake. But if you die poor it’s your
mistake.”

Choice now: B

Choice in assignment 1: E

Notes:
 Summary
Number unchanged: 8

Number changed: 12

Conclusion

To conclude, looking at the preceding sections of this portfolio, the most important things which I
learned in this module were:

Engaging with diverse perspectives and challenging established norms has highlighted the inherent
complexities of issues such as capitalism, racial justice, and wealth inequality. Through critical
examination and introspection, I’ve come to appreciate the multifaceted nature of these topics,
recognizing the need for nuanced approaches that address underlying systemic dynamics. For instance,
grappling with Mark Fisher’s assertion about the entrenched nature of capitalism has prompted me to
reconsider my initial dismissive attitude, leading to a deeper understanding of the pervasive influence of
economic systems on our collective consciousness.

Exploring environmental sustainability and ethical consumption has highlighted the interconnectedness
of human activities and ecological systems. The recognition of the finite nature of resources and the
urgency of addressing unsustainable consumption patterns has underscored the imperative of fostering
ecological stewardship and promoting responsible consumption practices. This realization has prompted
me to reflect on my own behaviors and consumption patterns, recognizing the need for individual and
collective action in mitigating environmental degradation.

In conclusion, this module has been a transformative journey of self-discovery and intellectual growth,
prompting me to critically engage with complex issues and challenging me to reconsider my
perspectives and assumptions. Through thoughtful reflection and meaningful dialogue, I have gained a
deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental phenomena,
as well as the ethical responsibilities inherent within our interconnected world. Moving forward, I am
committed to applying these insights in my personal and professional endeavors, advocating for positive
change and contributing to a more just, equitable, and sustainable society.

<complete this in a few paragraphs. NB: This should be the most substantial comment in this portfolio
and must give us a clear indication whether you have thought deeply about this module. It should be at
least 500 words long. >
References

Institute of Medicine. 2014. Including Health in Global Frameworks for Development, Wealth, and
Climate Change: Workshop Summary. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press.
https://doi.org/10.17226/18554.

National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2024. Creating an Integrated System of
Data and Statistics on Household Income, Consumption, and Wealth: Time to Build. Washington, DC:
The National Academies Press. https://doi.org/10.17226/27333.