DIscussion #1- Wal-mart: Friend or Foe?

Question: What do you think of the impact of Wal-Mart on our lives and the American economy? Do you think that the U.S. government should do something about it? Why or why not? --Dr. Chou

My Thoughts:
"I love the idea of a small town grocery store where you walk in and everyone knows you by name, it's as American as apple pie. Ideally speaking that is. But, much as I love the idea of small businesses, and though I feel for them, I also feel we are moving on; nothing stays the same.

We could spend much of our time romanticising about the way things used to be, or we can appreciate what good things there are here and now. Wal-mart does not have that small town appeal. It offers practicality, a way to quickly do the necessities so we can get on with the more enjoyable parts of our lives. Wal-mart is very aware of the various needs of its customers and brings the pricing down within the reach of the majority shoppers as best as it's able.

Although many businesses close because of wal-mart, many people are also employed. Wal-mart has a knack for enticing other businesses, and rsidences too,into the area also. So, to say that Wal-Mart only closes businesses would be mistaken.

Some contend that Wal-mart pays unbelievably low wages and can get away with it because of their market power. But, if I were to get a job at the local Allens, would I not get paid around minimum wage there also? What about other jobs commensurate with the types/level of jobs Wal-mart offers? In essence, walmart offers grocery store wages because it is...a grocery store, and a mechanic, and a pharmacy, etc. Most of these places, do not offer part time employees benefits and try to limit the hours so they can avoid doing so, just as Walmart does. It seems to be the amercian way.

I do feel the government has a right to step in, somewhat like a volleyball referee. What would basketball be but a courtside free-for-all if there were no ref's? Would football or soccer be half as enjoyable if there were not someone there to oversee that rules are being kept, or make impartial judgements? As much as we like to criticise referees, they are necessary. As is government intervention. This is not to say that rigidity in ruling is welcome, but there needs to be some guidance in the form of authority.

Once again, it would be nice going to a pharmacy that knows name when seeing the face. It's great calling a store and actually talking to a real person after just two rings. But, the convenience, the low pricing, the online advantages aren't to be sneezed at either. I dislike spending the majority of my time running necessary errands versus playing soccer with my kids, or getting a head start on my homework. Sometimes I want to just browse to kill time- it's a form of entertainment and it's far better when there's more to see in one place (think of your favorite zoo- bigger is better, right?) So, while I continue to go to my local fabric store where they actually know my quilts, I'll also run into walmart for my family's basic needs, and that forgotten thread. And, if i need a quick haircut while I'm waiting for my tires, I might even throw that one in too. After all, it's the American way."

--T