China Blue Questions
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Why do the workers in the film want to leave the countryside? What would they do if they stayed back home?
Many people claim that "even If conditions in factories are bad, they are better than working the fields," additionally stating that "it's their choice. If they don't like the jobs in the factories they can leave." Is this a valid argument? Do the factory girls have a choice? What other types of jobs do you think they could get?
Everybody knows that conditions in most Chinese factories are bad. If we all know this, why do you think American companies are still willing to have their goods produced there?
Imagine you were a worker in the factory in China Blue. Would you be willing to risk getting fired to participate in the action? Why or why not?
Clearly, the economic reforms have benefited Mr. Lam more than they have the factory workers. Do you think this sort of inequality is acceptable or does it invalidate the success of the economic reforms?
Do you think that the inequalities that are growing in both China and the United States are temporary, or is it a permanent feature of globalization?
What sorts of policies do you think would be effective in making economic growth fairer for everyone?
What do you think "corporate social responsibility" means? Can corporations simultaneously be socially responsible and make a profit? How so?
Who do you think is more responsible for the bad conditions in the factory in the movie, Mr. Lam the manager, or the foreign purchasers? Who do you think has more power to improve things for the workers?
Are you willing or able to spend more money on "sweat-free" clothing? Do you think most people in America are?