Shanna, I have to disagree with the cheaper products here theory. Nike, a documented user of sweatshop workers, still charges an exhorbitant amount for its products. New Balance, who makes its shoes in America, does not. Personally, I think NB's shoes are better then Nike's. ------------------ "norm, would you like to buy an indian scalp ? This deal isn't gonna make or break me Norm, so don't jerk me around." Harry Carey "Norm, if I had a mohawk scalp, I wouldn't be sitting here talking to you."
shanna is correct - it is countries "comparative advantage" that allows the world economy to prosper. Fundamentally, there is nothing wrong with US companies exploiting cheap labour overseas. Of course, I do not agree with the abuse and maltreatment that you reference. The bottom line is, Companies will do what they can get away with, as long as they maximize profit - it is up to the host country governments to regulate the way in which the labour is exploited. All the power economies today have (relatively)strictly enforced occupational health & safety and equality guidelines. Morally, the Companies are wrong for using sweatshops, but they wont stop doing it unless the host country makes them. ------------------ ..as a man danced so the drums were beaten for him. Current Rocket's Salary & Contract Info
Shanna, I have to disagree with the cheaper products here theory. Nike, a documented user of sweatshop workers, still charges an exhorbitant amount for its products. New Balance, who makes its shoes in America, does not. Personally, I think NB's shoes are better then Nike's. But that is because they can charge a premium for the Nike name -- some people just want to buy Nike. If it came down to a price war, Nike could afford to go lower than New Balance before taking a loss. This is the reason Converse went under -- they couldn't afford to compete against Nike and Reebok in this area. If New Balance started producing abroad, they could charge a lower price than they do now. ------------------ http://www.swirve.com ... more fun than a barrel full of monkeys and midgets. [This message has been edited by shanna (edited April 26, 2001).]
