World Studies World Lit

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Starbuck Making Bucks in China

China takes on Starbucks, biting a hand that feeds it, analysts say

http://america.aljazeera.com/articles/2013/10/22/chinese-media-takesonstarbucksbiteshandthatfeedsitanalystssay.html

1. Starbucks asserts that higher costs in China are due to the fact that “Chinese customers, unlike their American counterparts, often consume Starbucks food and beverages in the stores.” As a result, owners are forced to spend more on location and design. Is this a viable excuse for inflation? What other forces may be influencing the increased cost of purchasing a latte in Beijing?

2. The article contends that the taxes levied against foreign business in China are hampering the transition from a production-based economy to a more consumer-centric model. Do the taxes on international businesses restrict growth, or level the playing field, so that local Chinese-ownedcompanies can begin to thrive as the economy shifts towards a more westernized model?

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Approaches Expectations Assignment.

This question is from an interesting site called Philosophical Films that asks a series of questions based on the Truman Show:

During an interview, Christof states the following: "I have given Truman the chance to lead a normal life. The world, the place you live in, is the sick place. Seahaven is the way the world should be." Is Christof correct? What, if any, would be the benefits of living in Seahaven as opposed to the real world?

How About Them Apples? Good Will Hunting and Truman Show are Similar Existential Stories?

Good Will Hunting and The Truman Show are similar Existential Stories? How about dem' apples?

In this essay, the author makes the claim that both of these movies can be compared to the existential realization of existence. Secondly, like any good conclusion, the author leaves us with a larger question. The question is about love. In each of these movies, the protagonist leaves their absolute systems in search of love. Is this the main goal of self definition? To find love? Post your response and cite at least one text or movies that you have watched that strengthens your point.