Nick CopelandThe World of Wal-Mart: Discounting the American Dream (Routledge Series for Creative Teaching and Learning in Anthropology)

I actually had to purchase this for an anthropology class, but once I started reading it, I had a hard time putting it down. It's a well-written, easily understandable book even for people not familiar with anthropological terms and concepts, and I think because it analyzes such a current social fact, it holds a more contemporary understanding and interest for readers. Like the title says, it's a great book--I've recommended it to several people in my acquaintance--and it's a great teaching tool as it explains anthropological concepts using a contemporary example that people interact with on a daily basis, thus meaning that students are more passionate and engaged with the material.

This book condition was really good just some sticky stuff on the cover but no writing or anything instead. Good buy

Well written!

Has some interesting things in it

Good book

This looks at Walmart from something of an anthropological point of view. It's well done, a compelling read I can see how it would be useful in a class, it's succinct, readable and provoking.The book is even-handed in describing how Walmart does in fact provide employment and low prices, but does so at the social cost of low wages and squeezing suppliers (and to suppliers' labor environment). This is not a liberal tirade at a cutthroat giant, it is a solid analysis. The book says that 10% of what China makes is bought by Walmart, and that Walmart sells 20% of the groceries sold in the USA.Copeland credits Walmart with some ethical principles (unlike many analyses) but says that these are subverted by Walmart's commitment to ruthless pricing, ruthlessly fighting unions and their commitment to neoliberal economics. Me, I refuse to buy anything from Walmart, so you may see a bias here.