Issue Overview and Spatial Significant (What is there? Why there? Globalization is taking place around the world, but the issue is actually most concerning in developed countries where there is a large manufacturing base. As a result of higher wages demanded by workers, any companies are choosing to take advantage of the global economy and outsource. The author discusses the trend of outsourcing technology rather than human jobs.
Patterns and Trends (Part of a larger pattern or trend in the region? Or is it isolated?):: The trend of technology replacing jobs is global, but most pronounced in developed countries. Globalization has made it much easier not only to move information, but also manufacturing capabilities, especially with the advent of new technology.
Geographic Perspectives and interrelationships (SPEEC, connections to studies in class): This issue is heavily related to the discussions on the negative impacts of free trade and globalization in class. While there was significant discussion about the worker rights in developing countries, it is important to also realize the negative impact of globalization and technology in developed countries. The loss of jobs and outsourcing was a pillar of Donald Trump’s election platform that resulted him becoming the President of the United States. People who voted for him must realize that their jobs are not always being outsourced to foreign workers, but to robots.
Key Stakeholders (Who are the key stakeholders?) Corporations: Profit is the main motivation here. Corporations have a responsibility to investors. Workers are demanding high wages in return for low productivity. Technology and manufacturing capabilities in other countries appear to offer a better alternative.
Workers in Developed Countries: After working for years, many workers are waking up to find that their skills are irrelevant and can be easily be replaced by technology. Outraged, they protest and campaign against the outsourcing of jobs.
Governments in Developed Countries: Many of the citizens of the country are in an outcry over the loss of jobs. The government is constantly trying to ensure economic growth and provide incentives for these corporations to stay so they continue to pay taxes. Issue Implications - Why Care (SPEEC Impacts)? With the increasing capabilities of technology, it is important to realize the vast social and economic implications. In society, a career and job must be very carefully chosen. People must choose jobs that can never be replaced by technology or risk being left behind in this new trend. Technology bodes well for companies and becoming more efficient, but they might ultimately suffer when much of society no longer has the income to spend on products.