Free Trade or Perfectionism: New Lesson in Complimentary Free Enterprise Online Course!
In celebration of Northwood University’s Founders Day, a new lesson has been posted in the complimentary online course, “Philosophy of Free Enterprise.”
In the lesson — Free Trade or Perfectionism? — Dr. Dale Matcheck, the David E. Fry Endowed Professor in Free Market Economics at Northwood University, nimbly illustrates the impact of trade on our living standards. He also advocates for important policy reforms that could remove barriers to entrepreneurship and job creation, improve education, and provide a more effective safety net.
“We shouldn’t attempt to freeze the economy in its current form as an heirloom to be passed down to future generations. No, what we want to pass on to them is what we received from past generations: A dynamic entrepreneurial economy where increasing prosperity and economic opportunity make it possible for them to be better off than ourselves,” explains Dr. Matcheck, who chairs Northwood’s Economics program, in the new lesson, Free Trade or Perfectionism?
Anyone can enroll in Northwood University’s complimentary Philosophy of Free Enterprise course to learn about the importance of business in society, the ethical foundations of the capitalist system, the meaning of free enterprise and the ways in which it benefits us, limited government and the rule of law, and the differences between capitalism and other economic systems.
This newest lesson appeals to learners from all educational levels and backgrounds. It includes an easily digestible lecture that’s just six minutes long and incorporates helpful animation and engaging dialogue.
Learners enrolled in the Philosophy of Free Enterprise course can test their knowledge and access thought-provoking supplemental reading material following each lesson. Upon completing the course, learners will earn a certificate of completion.
To access each lesson’s lecture, the following are available to watch on Northwood University’s YouTube channel:
A Time Traveler’s Brief History of Progress
Innovation & Innovism
Vocation of Business
Constitution, Rules and Games
Entrepreneurship
Prices, Knowledge, & Incentives
Economic Freedom
America is Not a Democracy
Make a Law, Light a Match
Rights from the Start
Freedom and Equality
Civil Society
America’s Debt Crisis
Inflation
Knowledge, Prices & Incentive
Free Trade or Perfectionism?
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. Thanks also goes to the Thomas F. and Harriet S. Oakley Family Trust for their generous gift.
This newest lesson was posted in concert with Northwood University’s Founders Day, which was celebrated March 22, 2025. 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.