Globalization

Participate in a discussion with your classmates exploring the globalization of production.  Recall that different global markets have unique access to raw materials, specialized labor, and of course, labor costs. Therefore, based on the Discussion Rubric requirements, and your research and analysis, post your discussion exploring why the influential technology firm, Apple, might seek international production options, and the implication associated with such a decision.  Specifically, answer the following questions in your discussion:

What are the benefits to Apple of outsourcing the assembly of the iPhone to foreign countries, and particularly China?

In addition to Apple, who else benefits from Apple’s decision to outsource assembly to China? Who are the potential losers here?

1. What are the potential ethical problems associated with outsourcing assembly jobs to Foxconn in China?
2. On balance, do you think that the kind of outsourcing undertaken by Apple is a good thing or a bad thing for the American economy?
3. The research material for this discussion includes the following sources (you are encouraged to research others on your own):
4. The discussion of Apple in this week’s Review Lab textbook reading.