Systems Of Government: Two Cows

1. What different types of government do you know (capitalism, socialism, etc.)? 

2. What are the differences between socialism, communism, capitalism, and fascism and their approach to economic activity?

3. Have you ever considered living in a country that has a different social system?

4. What do you appreciate most about doing business in your country?

5. How do Americans, French people, and Italians differ in their approach to business?

Read infographic here: Two Cows Reading

6. What is your reaction? Which illustration was funniest? Did the illustrations for America, France, and Italy conform to your ideas on their approach to business?

7. Stereotypes often have a grain of truth in them. Choose 3 or 4 illustrations from the infographic and say what that grain of truth is for each e.g. 'British cows are mad because of the feeding scandal that lead to 'mad cow disease'.

8. Not every country is mentioned - what would be the outcomes for the following corporations: Canadian, Israeli, Russian, Irish, Finnish, one of your choice? 

9. Would a government run with algorithms, A.I., and statistics be better or worse than the types of government mentioned in the infographic?

10. In an ideal government, what should a good citizen provide to their government and what should that government provide that good citizen?

11. Is hierarchy necessary for all successful human societies?

12. Could societies exist without a way to transfer value (i.e. without money or a barter system)?

13. Do you think people’s political views change over their lifetime?

14. If you were to start your own farm/small business, where would you do it?

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Situation

You are a journalist. You are interviewing a famous author (your teacher) whose new book focuses on changes in political belief with the passing of time. Ask them about the concept of becoming more conservative as we age.

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Discuss quotes

“I imagine hell like this: Italian punctuality, German humour and English wine.” 

― Peter Ustinov

“Until the lion learns how to write, every story will glorify the hunter.” 

― J. Nozipo Maraire

“A stereotype is not a stereotype if it's true.” 

― Ron DeLegge II

"What is not good for the beehive, cannot be good for the bees."

- Marcus Aurelius, Meditations

"The danger of the past was that men became slaves. The danger of the future is that men may become robots."

- Erich Fromm

"Under capitalism, man exploits man. Under communism, it's just the opposite."

John Kenneth Galbraith

Student Handout PDF: Two Cows