Module 02: Comparative Advantage: Sources
In this module, we will continue our exploration of globalization by examining the principle of comparative advantage, a fundamental concept in classical trade theory, and a major justification for free trade and globalization. We will analyze how comparative advantage explains why trade occurs and the benefits it brings to nations.
Discussion Requirement
Comparative Advantage Around the World
Select a country of your choice (other than Saudi Arabia) and discuss its comparative advantage. What are the sources and the challenges?
What is the role of the government? What policies should the government implement to enhance the comparative advantage?
Directions:
Discuss the concepts, principles, and theories from your textbook. Cite your textbooks and cite any other sources if appropriate.
Your initial post should address all components of the question with a 600 word limit.
Sample solution
Dante Alighieri played a critical role in the literature world through his poem Divine Comedy that was written in the 14th century. The poem contains Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso. The Inferno is a description of the nine circles of torment that are found on the earth. It depicts the realms of the people that have gone against the spiritual values and who, instead, have chosen bestial appetite, violence, or fraud and malice. The nine circles of hell are limbo, lust, gluttony, greed and wrath. Others are heresy, violence, fraud, and treachery. The purpose of this paper is to examine the Dante’s Inferno in the perspective of its portrayal of God’s image and the justification of hell.
In this epic poem, God is portrayed as a super being guilty of multiple weaknesses including being egotistic, unjust, and hypocritical. Dante, in this poem, depicts God as being more human than divine by challenging God’s omnipotence. Additionally, the manner in which Dante describes Hell is in full contradiction to the morals of God as written in the Bible. When god arranges Hell to flatter Himself, He commits egotism, a sin that is common among human beings (Cheney, 2016). The weakness is depicted in Limbo and on the Gate of Hell where, for instance, God sends those who do not worship Him to Hell. This implies that failure to worship Him is a sin.
God is also depicted as lacking justice in His actions thus removing the godly image. The injustice is portrayed by the manner in which the sodomites and opportunists are treated. The opportunists are subjected to banner chasing in their lives after death followed by being stung by insects and maggots. They are known to having done neither good nor bad during their lifetimes and, therefore, justice could have demanded that they be granted a neutral punishment having lived a neutral life. The sodomites are also punished unfairly by God when Brunetto Lattini is condemned to hell despite being a good leader (Babor, T. F., McGovern, T., & Robaina, K. (2017). While he commited sodomy, God chooses to ignore all the other good deeds that Brunetto did.
Finally, God is also portrayed as being hypocritical in His actions, a sin that further diminishes His godliness and makes Him more human. A case in point is when God condemns the sin of egotism and goes ahead to commit it repeatedly. Proverbs 29:23 states that “arrogance will bring your downfall, but if you are humble, you will be respected.” When Slattery condemns Dante’s human state as being weak, doubtful, and limited, he is proving God’s hypocrisy because He is also human (Verdicchio, 2015). The actions of God in Hell as portrayed by Dante are inconsistent with the Biblical literature. Both Dante and God are prone to making mistakes, something common among human beings thus making God more human.
To wrap it up, Dante portrays God is more human since He commits the same sins that humans commit: egotism, hypocrisy, and injustice. Hell is justified as being a destination for victims of the mistakes committed by God. The Hell is presented as being a totally different place as compared to what is written about it in the Bible. As a result, reading through the text gives an image of God who is prone to the very mistakes common to humans thus ripping Him off His lofty status of divine and, instead, making Him a mere human. Whether or not Dante did it intentionally is subject to debate but one thing is clear in the poem: the misconstrued notion of God is revealed to future generations.
References
Babor, T. F., McGovern, T., & Robaina, K. (2017). Dante’s inferno: Seven deadly sins in scientific publishing and how to avoid them. Addiction Science: A Guide for the Perplexed, 267.
Cheney, L. D. G. (2016). Illustrations for Dante’s Inferno: A Comparative Study of Sandro Botticelli, Giovanni Stradano, and Federico Zuccaro. Cultural and Religious Studies, 4(8), 487.
Verdicchio, M. (2015). Irony and Desire in Dante’s” Inferno” 27. Italica, 285-297.
Sample Answer
Sample Answer
Comparative Advantage: The Case of Brazil
Introduction
Comparative advantage is a crucial concept in international trade, explaining how countries can benefit from specialization and trade based on their relative efficiencies in producing goods and services. In this discussion, I will focus on Brazil, a country known for its diverse economy and abundant natural resources. Brazil’s comparative advantage largely stems from its agricultural sector, particularly in the production of soybeans, coffee, and sugar. However, various sources contribute to this advantage, and there are notable challenges that the country faces. Additionally, I will examine the role of the Brazilian government in enhancing this comparative advantage through specific policies.
Sources of Comparative Advantage
Brazil’s comparative advantage in agriculture can be attributed to several factors, including its favorable climate, vast arable land, and advanced agricultural technology. The country is endowed with a variety of climates that allow for the cultivation of a wide range of crops. The Brazilian Cerrado, for instance, is one of the world’s largest tropical savannas and has been transformed into productive farmland through technological advancements, such as no-till farming methods and genetically modified crops (World Bank, 2020).
Moreover, Brazil’s agricultural sector benefits from economies of scale. Due to its size and production capacity, Brazil can produce agricultural products at lower average costs compared to smaller countries. This cost efficiency is vital in maintaining competitive pricing in international markets.
Another factor contributing to Brazil’s comparative advantage is its investment in research and development within the agricultural sector. Institutions such as the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa) have played a pivotal role in developing innovative farming techniques and improving crop yields. This investment in technology has enhanced productivity and positioned Brazil as a leader in agricultural exports.
Challenges to Comparative Advantage
Despite its strengths, Brazil faces significant challenges that could undermine its comparative advantage. One major challenge is political instability, which can lead to inconsistent policy implementation and deter foreign investment. Economic fluctuations can also impact agricultural production, as seen during periods of drought or flooding that affect crop yields.
Additionally, Brazil’s reliance on commodity exports makes it vulnerable to global price fluctuations. For example, when international prices for soybeans or coffee drop, it can have a profound impact on the country’s economy, leading to reduced revenues for farmers and potential job losses in rural areas.
Environmental concerns also pose challenges to Brazil’s agricultural sector. Deforestation in the Amazon Rainforest has raised global awareness and criticism of Brazil’s agricultural practices, leading to calls for more sustainable farming methods. Balancing economic growth with environmental protection is crucial for maintaining Brazil’s long-term comparative advantage.
Role of the Government
The Brazilian government plays a crucial role in supporting and enhancing the country’s comparative advantage through various policies. One key area is infrastructure development. Improved transportation networks, such as roads and ports, are essential for facilitating the movement of agricultural products from rural areas to urban centers and international markets. By investing in infrastructure, the government can reduce transportation costs and improve access to markets.
Additionally, the government should implement policies that promote sustainable agricultural practices. Encouraging farmers to adopt environmentally friendly methods can help mitigate the effects of deforestation and climate change while ensuring long-term productivity. Programs that offer incentives for sustainable practices can align economic interests with environmental goals.
Furthermore, the government can enhance Brazil’s comparative advantage by investing in education and training for farmers. Providing access to resources that improve agricultural knowledge can empower farmers to adopt innovative techniques and increase productivity. Extension services that connect farmers with research institutions can also facilitate knowledge transfer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Brazil’s comparative advantage in agriculture arises from its natural resources, technological advancements, and economies of scale. However, challenges such as political instability, environmental concerns, and reliance on commodity exports threaten this advantage. The government plays a vital role in addressing these challenges through infrastructure development, sustainable practices promotion, and education initiatives. By implementing policies that enhance its comparative advantage, Brazil can continue to thrive in the global marketplace while ensuring sustainable economic growth.
References
World Bank. (2020). Brazil: Overview. Retrieved from World Bank.
(Note: Ensure you consult your textbook for specific citations related to comparative advantage principles and theories.)
