Abstract
The purpose here is 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. Without a clear incorporation of the importance of commodity fetishism, other analyses of these topics ring a bit hollow. A core understanding of commodity fetishism is the crucial first step in developing meaningful social and economic theories about capitalist societies.

From the Paper
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Tags:commodity, fetishism, marx

Abstract
This paper discusses the global commodity chain vis-a-vis the product line of Toyota automobiles, which are globally designed and manufactured, necessitating an extended and integrated supply chain. The paper also relates that the actual consumption of the product occurs in a global fashion as does its marketing and distribution.

From the Paper
"This project discusses the global commodity chain vis-a-vis a specific product line. In this case, the product is Toyota automobiles which are globally designed and manufactured necessitating an extended and integrated supply chain. Additionally, the actual consumption of the product occurs in a global fashion as does its marketing and distribution.
"The commodity chain for any given product or service includes geographic as well as logical points of operations that are critical for that product..."

Tags:toyota, automobile, commodity

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
This paper consists of two two-page article summaries. The first is of Fred Fejes' "advertising and the Political Economy of Lesbian / Gay Identity." The second article that is considered is by Danae Clark. It is titled "Commodity Lesbianism." Both articles consider the effects of commodity and gay and lesbian identities and the effects on political issues.

Tags:feminism, article, summaries

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
This paper examines how the never-ending controversy surrounding the perception of photography as a work of art and not a work of science has been in existence since the invention of photography in the 17th century. It serves to highlight the transition of the chief role of photography from the world of art to the world of advertising and present considerable evidence as to how the financial implications can undermine the respect that photographs receive within the world of art. Specific ideas from the late Walter Benjamin relating to the ways in which photography can be shaped by society provide extensive concluding support to the overall argument for removing the modern-day photographic commodity from it's un-welcomed position within the world of art.

From the Paper
"Green's attempt to summarize the methodical styles in which photography record the world is described as three separate purposes. The first purpose, Family Pictures, brings about the idea of a family portrait. A sociological norm, the family portrait has become a fixture in the modern household as a means of portraying the family's development and growth. To not have a family portrait would convey an abnormal sense of division amongst the family members, which may raise sociological concerns. Thus, the family portrait becomes a normal household requirement, just like paying taxes or cutting the grass. It is at this level of sociological regulation that the family photograph becomes not an art, but a commodity that ensures the smooth development of the family. Just like a college degree for each child ensure proper education was had, the photo of the smiling family, all dressed up in new clothes, acts as a method of reassurance to the relatives unable to visit the family in person. "

Tags:Walter, Benjamin, portrait

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."

Tags:supply, chain, outsourcing, offshoring, manufacture

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."

Tags:technology, dairy, feedlots, hormone

Abstract
The paper explains that commodities are an oft-mentioned term in economic circles, identified by most people as a property, object or item used by producers to make money from consumers. The paper further explains that the typically modern interpretation of the commodity revolves around current financial markets. The paper notes that the term "commodities" is often used interchangeably with the term "commodities exchange", which is based on the principle of the futures markets.

From the Paper
"Commodities are an oft-mentioned term in economic circles, identified by most people as a property, object or item used by producers to make money from consumers. A typically modern interpretation of the commodity revolves around current financial markets, such as "a place where trading in commodities takes place.... similar to an Equity market, but instead of buying or selling shares one buys or sells commodities" (MCDEXINDIA). The term commodities is often used interchangeably with the term "commodities exchange", which is based on the principle of the futures markets."

Tags:marx, commodity, value

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 graphs 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."

Tags:monopolistic, contract, length, distribution, competitor, kegs, combine, purchasing, bar, Supply, Chain, Management