Chapter 2

This chapter gives plenty to think about. I have always heard that every dollar you spend is like a vote for the company who produces or distributes that product or service. But this chapter really does make me stop and think about who I voted for today and what that may mean for someone across the globe.

It also brings to light some of my conflicting views. I would say I am in favor of free trade, but not of outsourcing. I like to buy things for low prices, but am not in favor of child labor or sweatshop conditions. If we as a country were to produce the goods we buy exclusively in the United States, could we afford them?

So what is best? Should we continue to allow American companies shop around the world for the cheapest labor and ignore the working conditions of their employees? Should we not trade with countries and companies that do not meet certain standards of pay, working conditions, etc? I do not know what the best solution is. But if I was in charge, I would make big business wear their actions on their sleeves. Make their business practices well known to all and let the people decide. Let the American people vote with our most valued possession: the almighty dollar.