Musings on Globalization, Labor, and Consumer Behavior


The argument posited by politicians about about moving abroad only helping Mexico or China is a too common misconception. Ask yourself why companies move. Moves are not merely about labor, but labor is part of the equation. Labor costs are one of the few factors a company has control over. To keep costs down and…

This Island of the United States


To understand the cultural, social, and political complexity of the United States thinking of North America as an “island” often helps. As I typed that statement I also wonder if another Thought Model (allegory) might be better, that of a watchtower along the perimeter of a prison yard, with the United States being the watchtower,…

Why manufacturing matters for America


The United States will always need local manufacturing. But, we do need a new manufacturing philosophy and new economic plans for continued success. Our current manufacturing environment continues to support labor practices and strategies which are still firmly rooted in early 20th century labor sentiments. We will never hold our own against other countries if…