Think Global, Act Local ... And It's All Local

The other day, Dane wrote a thought-provoking post about the politics of "local." As Dane pointed out, there can be a fine line between supporting local economies and protectionism. Like Dane, I agree that sometimes supporting the local economy is the right answer; however, when we adopt policies to support local economies, we need to retain awareness of the global implications.

For that reason, I personally, do not support the boycott of products simply because they are made in a certain area. I think ethical companies can do a world of good by setting up shop in countries like China. Sweatshop labor should not be encouraged, but when a company opens a factory with fair labor practices in China, they are arguably doing more to reduce inequality and better the livelihoods of the poor than if they opened said factory in the United States or Europe.

Thus, I don't necessarily buy all locally produced goods, but I do believe supporting the local economy is important. So, my general answer is to buy most goods and services at local, small businesses as opposed to large chains.

As always, ethical consumerism is never easy. Some large chains are better than others: Starbucks, for example is known for offering relatively high wages, and for serving a wide range of fair-trade coffee.

On the whole, though, I do recommend patronizing the local drug-store, or independent bookstore, or ethnic grocery. Smaller businesses help to diversify the local economy, and several studies have shown that smaller businesses tend to pump more money back into the local economy than larger chains.

So go ahead and buy a stainless steel water bottle made in China using fair labor practices. But buy it at a locally owned business.