(1) Discuss the arguments for and against globalization regarding culture, economics and the environment. Describe countries that benefit most/least. What is your opinion regarding globalization?
(2) How do the political, economic, and legal environments of a country affect international trade and what factors make a country favorable for doing business? Specifically, what type of government, what type of economy (market, mixed, planned), and what legal systems are best/worst? Give examples.
(3) What are the seven things that an international business and its managers can do to make sure ethical issues are considered in business decisions? In your opinion, which is the most important and why? In your opinion, which is the least important and why?
(4) If you could open a business in any country in the world where would it be and why? Explain all relevant factors in your decision. There is not a wrong answer as long as you defend your choice well. Do not use your country from your project or the U.S.
(5) Discuss the differences between collectivism and individualism. What are some positives and negatives of each? Explain Protestant ethics and "the spirit of capitalism." Elaborate on the connection between them.
(6) Briefly describe the five cultural dimensions in Hofstede's model. For each dimension, name 2 countries that represent opposite ends of the spectrum. Do not use the examples from the book.
(7) What are the political and economic arguments for and against government intervention into international trade? What tools/policies can a government employ to encourage or discourage trade? How would this impact management decisions for companies within the government's country and those considering investing in that country?
(8) How does a company choose between acquisitions and greenfield investments? Give examples of each. Why would a company choose either one if they could just export to a country or grant licensing rights to an existing firm (be sure to look over pgs. 244-246 also)?
(9) Explain the host country costs vs. benefits and the home country costs vs. benefits related to FDI. Do you think the benefits outweigh the costs for a host country and why? Do you think the benefits outweigh the costs for a home country and why?
(10) What are the arguments for and against regional economic integration? As a manager, what threats and opportunities should you be concerned about in regard to each of the different bodies that have formed to implement economic integration (NAFTA, the EU, ASEAN, etc.)?