The Wal-Mart Effect: How the World's Most Powerful Company Really Works - and How It's Transforming the American Economy

Explore the varying iterations and manifestations of the Wal-Mart effect. How does Charles Fishman define this phenomenon, and what examples does he give of it? In what ways does this concept create a throughway to Fishman’s explorations of corporate policies, global labor standards, and the effects of offering low-cost goods?

Examine the ways in which Sam Walton’s founding philosophies continue to dictate Wal-Mart culture and corporate policies. What is the impact of these philosophies on Wal-Mart customers, employees, suppliers, and competitors? In what ways have the philosophies evolved or remained the same over the course of Wal-Mart’s history? Do you agree with Fishman’s claim that Walton’s philosophy has not been and cannot be effectively translated to such a large, global scale? Why or why not?

How does Fishman rely upon human stories in order to support his claims and guide his arguments? Cite specific examples of Fishman’s interviews and relationships with his subjects. What is the significance of including these conversations, and how do they relate to Fishman’s overarching conjectures?