Global Capitalism's Positive Contribuition

594 Words3 Pages
Global Capitalism’s Positive Contribution In the essay “The Noble Feat of Nike” by Johan Norberg, the author discusses how multinationals in Third World countries are actually improving local people’s quality of life and their prospects for a better life, even though the anti-globalization movement suggests that these multinationals are merely exploiting the poor when they set up their factories in Third World countries. The author cites Nike as a perfect example of a multinational with factories in Vietnam that is often demonized, but has actually brought with them new machinery, the latest technology, new and better management skills, improved labor practices, better wages and a much improved workplace. Norberg describes how Nike has been training their workers, improving their skills, increasing their productivity and consequently making them into more productive and valuable employees with brighter futures. Contrary to what the anti-capitalists suggest, the author paints Nike as a success story in Vietnam, not only because they brought with them new machinery and technology, but also because they have changed worker’s pride in their work and satisfaction with their jobs. In the article, a Vietnamese woman was asked what is most important thing for her about working at the Nike factory, and she responded that besides her wages she is glad that she no longer has to work on a rice farm anymore. Like many of her compatriots working in agriculture was once her only option. Her work was extremely grueling and she was left without any prospects for a better future for her and for her children. Now, at Nike, she is much happier working indoors in the factory, which allows her to learn different skills, become more productive, and most importantly, earn more wages, which in turn enables her son to attend a better school and pursue his desire to become a doctor.

More about Global Capitalism's Positive Contribuition

Open Document