Globalization Story Essay Example

Even non-union US plants paying minimum wage will still have higher labor costs compared to developing countries where workers may only earn $4 per day. Companies with contracts allowing them to pay $4 per day often subcontract with factories in different countries where workers are paid even less, like $1 or $2 per day. As a result of this practice, workers are forced into jobs with low wages, minimal benefits, and poor working conditions as anything better could jeopardize their meager earnings. For instance, in the Philippines where the minimum wage is slightly over $4 per day, these conditions persist. Manufacturing jobs competition exists among countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia Thailand Vietnam China Malaysia and Central American countries; however free trade may primarily benefit large corporations and might not be advantageous for them in the long term.
This text highlights the issue of cheap labor and its impact on the global economy. The reliance on low prices and wages has created a situation where the working poor depend on products from developing countries, perpetuating the demand for expanding free trade areas. Recently, the South Korean government signed a free trade agreement, resulting in protests due to decreased wages across participating nations. This resistance against collusion between governments and corporations is becoming more widespread.

The book "No Logo" thoroughly examines how super brands influence society. It argues that brands are now created in offices rather than factories, with their purpose determined by marketing departments. Instead of producing tangible goods, we now create images of these goods. Production inconveniences are outsourced, such as Nikkei's use of third world labor in manufacturing processes.

However, Nikkei's focus on branding over production

has led them to employ abusive sweatshops in Vietnam. John Remainder of Live Strauss describes this phenomenon as the ability to allocate resources and capital towards brands rather than manufacturing quality.

What is concerning is that many consumers favor specific brands for reasons unrelated to quality. Even more distressing are the poor working conditions maintained by a significant number of contractors associated with these brands. To illustrate this point, Klein presents the case of Liana Shih Handbag Factory in China which produces Cathie Lee handbags for Wall-Mart.Workers in this factory face grueling hours (60-70 hours per week), meager pay ($0.13 to $0.23 per hour), and unhygienic living conditions with 10 individuals sharing a room.

According to Klein, brands encountered an identity crisis when the baby boomers were no longer their main consumer base due to aging and mortality. To recover from this setback, brands like Brills Cream took several years. However, in the 1990s, brands targeting young people flourished in sectors such as alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, fast food, chewing gum, and sneakers. Kids were willing to pay extra money to fit in with these trends. Elsie Decorate, a clothing retailer, notes that "peer pressure has emerged as a powerful marketing tool." She explains that teenagers often shop together; therefore, if you can sell to one of them, it is likely that you will sell to everyone at their school. Klein compares this behavior to extreme "keeping-up-with-the-Joneses" mindset. She astutely observes that coolness is frequently intertwined with self-doubt - an opportunity for brands to profit from teenagers' insecurities.

The primary goal of marketing coolness is perpetuating the notion among young adults that by making certain purchases they can

achieve exclusivity and coolness. Klein examines the ethical implications of this marketing strategy on vulnerable teenagers who are already prone to insecurity.The text highlights the impact of marketing on defining beauty standards for profitable purposes, particularly targeting a demographic that already feels insecure. It also discusses the unique status associated with working-class individuals participating in activities like skiing, golfing, or sailing. The author also addresses the backlash against global brands due to questionable ethics, such as local communities campaigning against Wall-Mart for monopolistic practices. Citizen art as a form of resistance is explored by Klein, focusing on Rodriguez De Gerard's skillful parodying of advertisements to challenge their intended messages. Particularly concerning are billboards promoting cigarettes and strong alcohol in impoverished areas, which clearly target individuals seeking escapism. If interested in marketing, economics, or business ethics, this book comes highly recommended as it is extensively researched and written in an enjoyable and accessible style that showcases Kelvin's intellect throughout. Described by The Guardian as brilliantly written and well-researched account of a cultural shift from selling products to promoting brands, reading just a few chapters will leave your mind reeling. Klein's writing style prioritizes informality and clarity over jargon while convincingly presenting necessary insights with calmness and unsparing honesty.The Observer praises this insightful piece of journalism as a powerful call to action, highlighting its enlightening statistics and compelling anecdotes. No Logo, written by renowned author Naomi Klein, provides a comprehensive understanding of corporate criticisms and their influence on the global economy. It exposes the seductive strategies corporations employ to sell products and the cost-cutting measures they use in production. Although the documentary lasts approximately 40 minutes, it

offers valuable insights even for those familiar with these concepts. However, it is important to note that there are some irrelevant complaints and afterthought solutions suggested by Klein. Nevertheless, her explanation of business operations and problems is excellent and easily understandable for the average person – making it the best part of the documentary.

For a quick lesson on big business economy, this film can be paired with Michael Moor's Roger ;Me (1989), an outstanding documentary showcasing how corporations relocating factories and jobs outside of the US negatively impact local economies. These two documentaries provide valuable insights into corporate practices.In the age of social media, branding has become a pervasive aspect of our everyday lives. We are constantly exposed to company logos, which can sometimes be bothersome and lead to anti-corporate activism against well-known brands. The documentary No Logo is based on Naomi Klein's bestselling book and explores the reasons behind the growing resistance to economic globalization. It examines how global brands like Nike and Tommy Hilfiger have become iconic symbols of globalization. Klein argues that corporations have shifted their focus from manufacturing products to creating branded identities that people incorporate into their lifestyles. Despite its outdated production quality, with much of it filmed off a television set and blurry screens, the documentary still provides valuable insights through commercials, vintage news reels, and interviews with Naomi Klein conducted on poorly executed green screens.The documentary employs various media examples to demonstrate the impact of corporate globalization on people worldwide. It explores how public spaces are taken over by commercial entities, consumer choice is destroyed, and real jobs are replaced with temporary work. The film also

highlights the global democratic resistance against the power of brands. Klein delves into issues such as sweatshops in the Americas and Asia, culture jamming, corporate censorship, and reclaiming public spaces. Divided into four parts named "No Space," "No Choice," "No Jobs," and "No Logo," the documentary aligns with Klein's book but lacks a detailed explanation of globalization itself. Nonetheless, it presents both positive and negative aspects of branding rather than solely complaining about them. I appreciate that it offers examples of reclaiming democratic rights instead of just ranting about them. However, some suggested solutions may appear secondary in the film. Despite this, the most commendable aspect acknowledges the complexities surrounding anti-market ideology and the challenging issues posed by globalization on global labor markets.However, it is important to note that citizens from third world countries willingly work at undesirable factories because the alternative is a lower standard of living. I strongly dislike organizations like WTFO and MIFF as they manipulate governments of these countries into submission. MIFF's lending practices make it impossible for borrowing countries to repay their debt, thus perpetuating poverty. Consequently, these countries have no choice but to neglect enforcing good working conditions and human rights due to being bought out by MIFF, with China serving as a prime example. Despite the appalling labor conditions compared to US standards, wages in China are increasing and recent worker protests have led to some improvements. The treatment of Chinese workers is relatively better than that of other workers. This current global situation resembles what our grandparents experienced 50-125 years ago when low-quality factory jobs were commonplace. However, they were able to improve workplace conditions and raise

the overall standard of living for the nation through hard work. It is essential to acknowledge that social prosperity without work remains a fantasy;The hard work of our grandparents has contributed to our comfortable standard of living, although this may be more noticeable now. Similar situations were also experienced in historical empires like the British, Roman, and Egyptian. The ongoing process of globalization is influenced by mankind's inherent evil greed. This phenomenon is not new. While I support fair trade, I do not believe advertising is solely responsible for the decline in product quality. This perspective appears overly cynical. To improve product quality, we should consider purchasing fair trade goods. It's important to recognize that even fair trade sellers and farmer's markets are becoming corporations. Small businesses may turn to larger companies due to the nature of capitalism, which can have both positive and negative effects. Documentaries often portray corporations as owners and manipulators, but in reality, we own them. Their actions reflect their desperation for our approval.

Nobody forces us to buy from them. Although they may try to subtly manipulate us through advertising, we still have our own thoughts and are not being brainwashed.I personally don't purchase products from Nikkei but I see numerous commercials for it; however,I am indifferent towards Nikkei.Some individuals might fall for these commercials and logos while others need to think critically before making a purchase decisionThe film is somewhat outdated and appears to be hypocritical, but it is still worth watching and considering. The documentary, based on Naomi Klein's bestselling book, explores the omnipresence of branding in today's world. It investigates why well-known brands are targeted by graffiti

artists and demonstrates how corporate globalization affects everyone through the commercial takeover of public spaces, limited consumer choice, and the replacement of stable jobs with temporary work. However, it also highlights a global resistance movement that aims to challenge brand dominance. In this culture driven by profit, ideas themselves lose value when they are treated as commodities exploited for monetary gain, such as using diversity or community for marketing purposes (as exemplified by Benton sweaters or Struck promotions). Logos can now be found everywhere in our branded-dominated society.No Logo, written by Naomi Klein and based on her bestselling book, delves into the reasons why certain famous brands become targets of anti-corporate campaigns and protests, resulting in defacement with spray paint. The book explores the backlash against multinational corporations' growing economic and cultural influence. Klein analyzes the rise of iconic brands like Nike, The Gap, and Tommy Hilfiger to argue that these corporations have realized their profits do not lie in manufacturing products themselves (which are outsourced to low-wage workers in developing countries), but rather in creating branded identities for individuals to adopt as part of their lifestyles.

Using various media examples, No Logo demonstrates how corporate globalization dynamics such as replacing permanent jobs with temporary work affect people globally. Naomi Klein, a social and economic analyst, discusses centralization's impact and resistance against corporate globalization in her book No Logo. In the 2002 edition of the book, an additional Afterward exposes deceptive practices and far-reaching consequences of corporate marketing through journalistic accounts and personal testimonies. No Logo highlights the potential for an activist movement that could reshape the future.

Originally published before the World Trade Organization protests in

Seattle, No Logo is a groundbreaking cultural critique examining money, marketing tactics, and the anti-corporate movement.The text explores how multinational corporations are aggressively advertising to gain consumer loyalty, while the new generation fights back by using their own strategies against consumerism. This is evident in aspects of society like schoolbooks, superstores, sporting arenas, and brand promotions that saturate everyday life.

The study presents a front-line report on the battle of the Nikkei swoosh, examining its transformation from an athletic status symbol to a representation of sweatshop labor. It also delves into the risks taken by teenage McDonald's workers who join the Teamsters and explores how "culture Simmers" use spray paint, computer-hacking skills, and anti-propagandist wordplay (such as replacing "Joe Camel" with "Joe Chemo") to undermine billboard ads.

No Logo challenges and enlightens students in various fields such as sociology, economics, popular culture, international affairs, and marketing. Naomi Klein emphasizes in her Introduction that this book goes beyond depicting the power held by corporate giants governing global systems. Instead, it aims to analyze and document opposing forces against corporate rule while highlighting cultural and economic conditions leading to their emergence.

The Media Education Foundation reviews the Naomi Klein "No Logo" DVD, which is based on her influential book. The review emphasizes that the film uses various media examples to demonstrate how corporate globalization affects individuals worldwide through the commercialization of public spaces, limited consumer choices, and the replacement of permanent jobs with temporary employment. It also acknowledges the global resistance against dominant brands and recognizes the international significance of brands like Nikkei, The Gap, and Tommy Hillier. According to Klein, globalization has shifted the focus from manufacturing products

to creating branded identities that people incorporate into their lifestyles. Her work exposes how mass marketing strategies connect consumerism with politics. She explains how global brands prioritize a product's image and perception over its actual features. This concept can be applied when understanding Karl Rove's branding of Bush as a political figure associated with qualities such as piety, humility, and determination. Despite the contrast between Bush's brand image and his administration's destructive reality, many consumers (voters) were influenced by this marketing approach.

Coca-Cola successfully sold a carbonated beverage by associating it with friendship, good times, refreshment, holiday cheer, patriotism, and youthful energy. The author discusses the impact of advertising on consumer perception and the power of brand identities. They argue that effective advertising is crucial for products like Coca-Cola to gain worldwide popularity. Brand identities have also led to international product marketing, giving multinational corporations significant influence beyond national boundaries. However, the author points out the irony that these corporations often promote positive global goals while engaging in unethical labor practices for profit maximization. This parallels how Karl Rove shapes the public image of former President Bush. The author suggests that consumers and voters are influenced by emotional associations and appealing images rather than the actual substance of the product or politician.In a conversational DVD, the author praises Klein's insights on corporate branding and global product marketing. The DVD includes footage illustrating these concepts. The author emphasizes that in today's society, branding has become more important than product development as a sales tool. This shift in consumerism and voting patterns is also evident in politics in the United States. Naomi Kelvin's No Logo argues that we

now live in a society where brand-name culture dominates, with people fully immersed in branded worlds like walking, talking life-sized dolls. This phenomenon of brand identity is thriving online, particularly for retailers who are not limited by physical stores or product manufacturing. These brands have transformed into collective hallucinations rather than just providers of goods or services.

Klein explores this pervasive nature of brands not only within media and on the streets but also within schools. She points out how global companies claim to support diversity through "corporate multiculturalism," but their true intention is to offer more buying options for consumers.

Furthermore, Klein examines the impact of corporate conglomeration on retailers like Wall-Mart and how it affects their relationships with other divisions such as Paramount Pictures and Blockbuster - both owned by Fiasco. She highlights Paramount's lack of protest against Blockbuster's policiesKlein also discusses the issue of workers who do not benefit from the success of these companies. The president of Borders rejects the idea of paying clerks a livable wage, stating that it is not feasible in the current business environment. Klein suggests that these clerks should consider themselves lucky compared to workers in Asian sweatshops who earn minimal wages producing popular fashion items like Nikkei sneakers. Klein further explains how "parameters" are hired to perform most of the work but receive limited benefits such as healthcare, paid vacations, and stock options. This strategy makes it difficult for workers, especially those in high-tech industries, to organize and advocate for change within the "Free Agent Nation." However, there is a growing resistance and backlash against these brands. Street-level education programs in inner cities have been teaching children

about Nine's exploitative labor practices and their inflated prices, leading to boycotts. One urban teenager expressed their sentiment by saying, "Nikkei, we made you.We can break you." Nevertheless, Klein describes an even broader revolution taking place. Ethical shareholders, cultural activists, street protestors, organizational leaders, human rights advocates, school advocates,and online corporate watchdogs are all starting to demand an alternative that prioritizes citizens' interests over global brand dominance.Klein's book, No Logo, offers a comprehensive account of the impact of the global economy and the resistance efforts being made against it. This information refers to the Hardcover edition. According to Publishers Weekly, Klein systematically builds a compelling argument against branding in general and specifically targets major North American corporations such as Gap, Microsoft, and Struck. Despite initial expectations of consumer choice and interactive communication in the information age, Klein discovers that these anticipations have not been fulfilled.

Instead of simply being product manufacturers, large corporations dominate various mediums like airwaves, physical space, and cyberspace by branding themselves as providers of lifestyle. This dominance has had adverse effects not only on culture but also on the workforce both in developing countries and in the US. Companies prioritize marketing over labor which leads to reliance on temporary workers. Klein examines the backlash against this trend through Reclaim the Streets - a guerrilla group that transforms busy intersections into spaces for political protests and picnics.

Her examination reveals numerous examples showcasing corporate influence within the branded world including unexpected positions such as a K-Mart Chair of Marketing at Wayne State University. She combines her activist passion with insightful cultural analysis where she emphasizes the significance of free speech amidst overwhelming commercial noise.The

extensively researched book exposes the alarming economic realities of globalization. The formula for globalization is simple: laying off US employees and outsourcing manufacturing to developing countries with low wages and poor working conditions. This strategy allows companies to distance themselves from human rights violations while selling goods in the US at higher prices, resulting in higher profits. These increased profits enable CEOs to award themselves significant bonuses that could financially support sweatshop workers for a decade or more under improved conditions. Companies justify these strategies as efficiency-boosting actions that provide job opportunities in impoverished nations, perpetuating the false belief that globalization benefits everyone. A notable example is Disney, which pays its CEO $9,783 per hour while Haitian manufacturing workers earn only $1 per hour.In the realm of economic feudalism, there exists a significant income disparity where it would take a worker 16.8 years to earn the hourly income of a CEO. Additionally, in 1996, the CEO profited $181 million from stock options alone, an amount capable of supporting their 19,000 Haitian workers and their families for 14 years.

Welcome to this world that has been shaped by these circumstances. A book I recently read transformed my perspective on the environment, making me more attentive to billboards and advertisements. It even ignited within me a desire to deface large chain conglomerates that have driven my beloved bookstores and record stores out of business. The well-organized chapters of this book provide valuable insights by guiding readers through the process of advertisements, purchasing decisions, and the daily lives of garment and shoe workers. It has made me aware of how each purchase I make can impact others and create

a ripple effect.

This particular book holds great significance among all those I have ever read. Furthermore, it delves deeper into these concepts in a film adaptation that exposes how companies nowadays market not just their products but entire lifestyles. Naomi explores the recapitulation, challenges, and resistance faced by this economic model while posing thought-provoking questions that make it an intriguing watch. Numerous brands have realized that marketing goes beyond simply branding a product for its quality; they can now sell ideas and ways of life too.Examples such as Coca-Cola, Disney, and McDonald's achieved great success as American brands because they understood that their products represented more than just tangible items. These brands recognized that they were actually selling concepts or beliefs, like the idea of family that became associated with them. In the 1960s, Coca-Cola changed its approach from simply marketing their black carbonated beverage to promoting a youthful lifestyle. They went beyond merely advertising their generic product and began endorsing ideals such as excellence and love. In today's business landscape, numerous companies strive to become super-brands by offering a diverse range of products and services. These companies go beyond their primary identity and expand into other industries like music or even venture into ownership of airplanes. These mega-brands are in constant competition with each other, aiming to establish a presence everywhere and dominate all aspects of consumers' lives. This rivalry resembles an ongoing battle between imperial powers that consistently push the boundaries of influence.