Culture and Globalization

Week9 Archive

Oct 21

In previous weeks, we talked about the rise of service industries in an era of globalization (related to the growth of  stadia construction,and tourist enclaves). We have also looked at the importance of communication technologies to our world economy, especially internet-based ones. This week, our readings point to the connections of manufacturing and other forms of routinized labor to both the service industry (Apple stores) and the circulation of goods themselves. The readings point to how even video game play can become a form of labor. In your response for this week, discuss the most interesting things you learned from each reading, and reflect on what you think the ethical and political implications might be for those of us who consume these goods (which might be just about everyone).