Abstract This paper provides an analysis of the term commodities. It describes the modern history of commodities and then focuses on the Marxist interpretation of the history and form of commodities. The paper delves into how value and human labor define characteristics of commodities. It finally describes the opposition to the Marxist definitions and explanations of commodities.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
The Modern History of the Commodity Marxist Interpretation of Commodities: History and Form
Value and Human Labor as Defining Characteristics of the Commodity Commodity Value = Money?
Opposition to Marx
Conclusion
From the Paper "Gold, or money, is therefore an expression of value in defining the nature of the commodity because it is a measure of that commodity's value. Commodity value needs always to be determined by some measure - whether that be gold or money. This measure implies that it is invariable, as it is a unit of weight and should require a fixed ratio of values; but this is not the case, as the value of gold can - and does - change. This has little effect on the nature of the commodity as different quantities of gold will always represent the same ratio of relative values, and can therefore be used as a measure of assessment for commodity value. In other words, gold (and money) can always be used as a standard stable price measure, regardless of alterations to its own implicit value (Marx "Contribution" 65)."
Abstract This paper examines commodity fetishism, a central tenet in Marxist theory, as well as crucial cornerstone in globalization. The paper claims that despite this central importance to Marxist theory, commodity fetishism is too often overlooked or misinterpreted by social and economic theorists who employ (or criticize) Marxist theoretical approaches. As such, there has been a general lack of understanding regarding how commodity fetishism influences the development and manifestation of advanced, or late, capitalist societies. The paper aims to unveil the meaning and significance of commodity fetishism, particularly in order to reveal what this concept can tell us about human relations under capitalism, freedom, ideology, equality, and democratic ideals. In the end, the paper concludes that commodity fetishism only demands that all social relations be conducted through the marketplace and through the medium of commodity exchange, but has no interest in liberty or democracy beyond this point, a realization that should give pause to claims that capitalism is the harbinger of democracy.
From the Paper "In this way, commodity fetishism is more than just an ideological category that is a part of capitalism--instead, it is inseparably linked to capitalism, being a component without which capitalism cannot function (Wenning par. 11). Commodity fetishism dictates that social relations will be defined in terms of the values placed on commodities, making the commodities a crucial part of all social relations in a capitalist society. Commodity fetishism occurs because under capitalism the medium of exchange of the whole of individuals' material lives is the commodity. One trades his or her labor--a kind of commodity--for currency--another kind--which is then exchanged for other commodities no longer produced by the individual or even the community. In these instances, it is only commodities that shift hands as they are exchanged according to the value that is placed in them by, what Marx deems, a fetishizing impulse. The value of commodities is, to a large degree, utterly arbitrary. A tiny diamond is worth far more than a loaf of bread, even though the latter is much more valuable and necessary in a practical sense in the day-to-day life of an individual. Capitalism fetishizes commodities and imbues them with values completely out of proportion to their function or usefulness to individuals or communities."
Tags: capitalism, consumerism, Marxism, Marx, democracy, liberty
Abstract In this article, the writer questions whether items owned by individuals are used to secretly express feelings without speaking. In the course of the essay, the writer draws upon points from various sources in an attempt to discuss the ways in which commodities are used to construct and express sexual identities. The writer concludes that there is no doubt that there is a correlation between the forming and expressing of sexual identity and the purchasing of commodities to heighten that expression or image. The writer maintains that commodities can be used to create an identity, variate an identity or perhaps to just further emphasize an identity.
From the Paper "In all these cases, there is one association formed between the product and an element. Lynx attracts females. The cause is the application of the fragrance, the effect is that females are attracted. Therefore, it can be assumed that if a male wanted to express his sexual identity he could purchase Lynx with the idea that it will transform him into a guy that would be seen as a sex symbol to other females."
"As we live in a capitalist society, we tend to feel a lack of control over the occurrences in our life as we grow up. This is coupled with the fact that while growing up, the notion that money is power is brought upon us - with power representing happiness. Therefore, it is not surprising that people try to find a possible way to control the environment around them. It was found that consumption offers a form of control over oneself and how one is perceived socially."
Abstract The paper looks at the global commodity chain vis-a-vis a specific product line. The paper focuses on Toyota automobiles which are globally designed and manufactured, necessitating an extended and integrated supply chain. The paper also discusses how the actual consumption of the product occurs in a global fashion as does its marketing and distribution. Finally, the paper examines future trends of the company.
Outline:
Abstract
The Commodity Chain
Product Design & Engineering
Product Production
Marketing & Advertising
Retailing & Distribution
Product Consumption
Conclusion & Future Trends
From the Paper "The commodity chain for any given product or service includes geographic as well as logical points of operations that are critical for that product to be produced and then finally consumed. This commodity chain can be described as, "...the sequence of major business activities that add utility (usefulness) to the products or services provided by an organization to its customers" (Hwang, 1999, p.95). With that in mind any product or service can be subdivided into the components that add value to each process comprising its production and delivery. The reasons for examining a product in this respect are many, but put succinctly, being aware of one's commodity chain and its components, "...will yield the greatest competitive advantage..."(Value, 1996, para.2). Thus, this research project examines Toyota's automobile commodity chain. Toyota must more fully understand its commodity chain components in terms of how they contribute value to the overall product which is the automobile."
Tags: supply, chain, production, marketing, distribution
Abstract Agriculture, once a means of survival in America, has now become an industry, which generates millions of dollars a year. Before agriculture, humankind relied on hunting, fishing, and gathering in the wild to survive. People were known as hunters and gatherers, but soon became farmers. Once farming was introduced, humans were able to become much more sedentary because they did not have to move from place to place looking for sustenance. This paper shows that, once human creativity was unleashed, Americans began to understand the magnitude of profit and livelihood that agriculture held. To understand the full magnitude of the agriculture commodity trade, this paper examines the history of the trade, the policies/programs affecting the trade, and the standards set for the trade before it can be sold.
From the Paper "As long as human beings are in need of food to survive, the agricultural commodity trade will exist. Agriculture today is a complex system of production, distribution, research, and marketing. People desire option and depend on other people as well as other nations to supply them with a variety of product. The United States has a stable position in the agricultural commodity trade and this will remain stable with the right programs and policies put into action. Technology has helped stabilize the agricultural commodity trade in America and other advanced countries. Threats of drought, under-production, and other natural disasters have been lowered. After learning about the history of the trade as well as the policies and programs affecting the trade, it is easy to conclude that it is important to the U.S. economy. Compliance with policies and programs will only help farmers remain in competition to become profitable."
Abstract The paper discusses the Apple iPod's commodity chain in order to identify the geographic factors that are intrinsically involved in the production and manufacture of this consumer product. The paper points out that since the Apple iPod's global supply chain is so extensive, this research only focuses on that which mainly involves third party interactions.
From the Paper "Electronic companies are especially dependent on spatial economic factors relative to geography because of the global supply and manufacturing business model. Apple Computer, Inc. (Apple) is an innovative computing company that has been the main rival to Microsoft for approximately the last 28 years and is now also a consumer product goods (CPG) manufacturer as well because of its iPod and now iPhone products which are utilized by students around the globe (Blaisdell, 2006). In terms of market share, Microsoft dwarfs Apple and will continue to do so into the foreseeable future. Microsoft, however, has long trailed Apple in terms of innovative new products, product design and in customer fealty."
Abstract This paper explains that, when customers consume a commodity such as an iPod, they often do not realize that not only are they engaging in a relationship with that particular commodity, but they are also becoming intertwined in a series of social, economic and geographical global relationships that are responsible for bringing that product to market. The author points out that the iPod's commodity chain extends from an initial idea in the Silicon Valley, to mining for raw materials such as bauxite and carbon in Guinea and the Republic of Congo, processing plants in Kazakhstan, engineers in India, global high-tech headquarters on nearly every major continent, manufacturers in China, marketing firms in the United States and the end consumer. The paper relates that each and every one of these components has its own commodity chain that begins with conception or a design, production, all the way to the retailing distribution to the consumer
From the Paper "These relationships can be mapped in reverse from the point of consumption, to a retailer, to a marketing agency, to a supplier, from an exporter/importer, then a producer or manufacturer, and finally, the location of the raw materials of which the consumer product, in this case the iPod, are made of. This sequential chain of functional activity nodes is known as a commodity chain. Identifying a product's commodity chain is critical for maximizing revenues by identifying processes along the commodity chain where operating costs can be reduced and thus, margins increased."
Abstract The paper explains that development is threatening the ancient forests and that timber companies would like to log the few remaining 1,000 year old, 300 foot trees in the Pacific Northwest. The writer explains that the destruction of the forests destroys vital ecosystems, contributes to global warming and helps create climate changes. The paper explains the effects of timber operations and discusses the forest health in the Pacific Northwest. The paper explains that the United States Forest Service is the steward of America's national forests. It explains that this agency has received much criticism and explains why. The writer states that the national forest timber sales program operated at a net loss to taxpayers and details the reasons for this. In conclusion, the writer argues that government dumping of cheap timber makes the market unpredictable for private sector commodity suppliers. The writer feels that the United States Forest Service should abandon its role as a producer of commodities as commodity production is best left to the private sector.
Table of Contents:
Effects of Timber Operations
Forest Health in the Pacific Northwest
Forest Service
Water Supply
Facts About Timber Sales
Jobs and Economy
Timber Supply
Private Lands
Figures
Bibliography
From the Paper "The revised Plan fails to protect wildlife, recommends no new wilderness areas, overestimates allowable logging levels, fails to analyze grazing impacts, and largely ignores public comments. Although the Plan refers to "late succession landscapes" (i.e., mature and old growth forests) as "an important feature of a healthy forest ecosystem," only 9% of the entire forest would be restored to this condition under the new Plan -- a retreat from a projected 21% under the 1983 Plan. While the Black Hills are home to the Black Elk Wilderness, one of the most popular wild areas in the region, the new Plan calls for no more designated wilderness areas than the one percent in the old Plan. The new Plan allows grazing on all eight of the Black Hill's biologically rich "Special Botanical Areas," with no analysis of whether they are suitable for grazing. And, although the Plan praises the "scenic beauty" of the Black Hills, less than 1% of the forest is to be managed for "very high" scenic integrity. Only 12.1 percent is slated for "high" and a whopping 44.4 percent for "low."
"This is not the stewardship the American people expect. The Forest Service received 997 letters from the public in favor of preserving biological diversity in the Black Hills -- but dismissed them in less than one page of response.
"The Forest Service's shameful handling of these forests illustrates the enormity of the problem. The incentives, financing, and culture of the agency continue to be stacked against our National Forest's non-timber values."
The paper is the report from a class commodity marketing project, the purpose of which was to develop a sourcing strategy for a commodity, Coors Light Beer, for the buying firm, Fumbles Sports Bar.
Abstract The paper presents a detailed summary of Coors Beer. The group concludes that the existence of a monopolistic market limits the options available to improve sourcing of Coors Light for Fumbles; therefore, Fumbles should increase the contract length with Pierce Distribution, decrease the amount of competitors' kegs purchased and combine purchasing of Coors Light with other local bar. The paper includes four graphes and tables.
Table of Contents
Executive Summary
Purpose
Methodology
Introduction
Business Unit and Sourcing Strategies
Cost/Price Reduction
Quality Improvement
Delivery Improvement
Buying Firm: Internal Information
Importance
Usage/ Price
Specifications
Substitutes
Volume Requirements
External Market
Brewing Company
Manufacturing Process
Component Raw Materials
Primary and Secondary Uses
Possible Substitutable Products
Cost Structure/ Trends
Pricing Method and Trends
Technology Trends
Identification of Key Suppliers in the Industry
Type and Level of Competition
Identification of Major Buyers within the Industry
Competing Demand
Current
Projected
Supply Origins
Supplier Specific Information
Financial Overview
Supplier Size
Market Shares
Cost & Resource Saving Strategies
Supply Chain Strategies
From the Paper "The primary brewing and packaging facility for Coors, though, is in Golden, Colorado, with a supporting production plant in Memphis, Tennessee. The other packaging plant that Coors operates is in Shenandoah Valley near the town of Elkton, Virginia. Golden, Colorado is essential to Coors Light because of the supply of fresh water provided at the site, which is a main ingredient in the beer. This significant factor is also used as a marketing tool to emphasize their beer's quality. In fact, the main reason for each plant's location is the high-quality water. Golden, Colorado is also the original location that Adolph Coors, the founder of the Coors Company, who founded the beer headquarters in 1873. It is now the largest brewery in the world."
Abstract This is a comparison paper of "The Diary of a Young Girl" and "Pokemon". Both Pokemon and "The Diary of a Young Girl" illustrate that it is not possible to escape from commodification in children's texts; Anne's diary is, in fact, a commodity, just as much as Pokemon was designed as a commercial venture and to create commodities.
Abstract This paper examines the role of popular figures in sports and entertainment as global commodities. These figures are perceived as global commodities in that the general public can immediately identify them and tie these popular figures to their accomplishments, which is also highly effective when used as a marketing strategy for companies that advertise a commercial or product connection to these figures. In addition, the recognition that accompanies these figures helps the average individual affirm a feeling of personal connection to a country or a product. In order to best assess this thesis, the evolution of the lack of individuality in respect to a growing global capitalism is assessed, with an emphasis on the media and on popular culture. The book "Michael Jordan and the New Global Capitalism" will be used, in addition to other sources.
Abstract This paper will discuss the nature of sex in cultures that use this form of pleasure as a commodity. By understanding the ways that this is used to help sell sex become a part of culture, the basis for its use in making money will analyzed to better show the different ways that is used for profit. The following sources will be used to illustrate this: "To Hunt in the Morning" by Janet Siskind (The tribe of the Sharanhua in eastern Peru, particularly their "Special Hunt") "The Mountain People" by Colin Turnbull (The tribe of the Ik) "Neither Man nor Woman" by Serena Nanda (The Hijras of India) The fourth Source would be a comparison drawn to our North American culture, how our culture uses sex as a commodity. These sources will be used to help clarify how sex is a part of culture for the making of money.
Abstract This paper will explore how Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico have fared in this turbulent environment. Over the 1990s, each of these country's experienced major shifts in their economic structures. All experienced debt crises, high inflation, high interest rates, and high dependence on commodity exports. However, we do see some differences between their economic performance. Through an empirical analysis that looks at the role of interest rates, commodity prices, and each country's real experiences with debt crises, this paper will provide ideas on how these economic phenomenon are linked in Latin America. An appendix of raw data is included.
Abstract This paper will take a look at the inherent value of water and discuss how its scarcity creates both international and inter-regional conflict. A simple quantification of the world's fresh water stocks provides clear proof that it is surely a scarce commodity. Applying this to a geo-political approach, and using the Middle East as a case in point, it soon becomes clear that water is a strategic commodity that ignites political tension. A popular Israeli phrase highlights both the logic and difficulties of this approach: 'If there is political will for peace, water will not be a hindrance. If you want reasons to fight, water will give you ample opportunities.'
Abstract This paper discusses how, in the very first chapter of "Capital", Karl Marx appropriates the idea of fetishes from the realm of religious anthropology and unceremoniously deposits it into the realm of economics. It examines how Marx speaks of commodities and of capitalism with blatantly religious terminology in addition to his standard scientific discussion of the situation. It attempts to find a religious explanation for his fetishism of commodities.
From the Paper "It would not be inappropriate to step back for a moment from the analysis of the religious aspect of fetishism to consider, as G.A. Cohen does in his defense of Marxism, that Marx may not have been proposing that economics were spiritualized, but rather merely using the spiritual as a metaphor for something abstract and yet rational. Cohen suggests that the basic doctrine of commodity fetishism is actually very straightforward. The amount of personal labor necessary to create a thing defines its exchange-value. Things hence have exchange-values. However, they do not have exchange value autonomously, but only in relationship to labor and to markets. Regardless, they seem seem to have autonomous exchange-value. This is an illusion. The illusion of exchange-value as an autonomous power of things makes these objects fetishes because they are assumed to own that power."
