a) Schweder discussed three prophesies about the shape of the new world order. The first is that "the West is best", which states that all nations will westernize themselves in an attempt to compete globally. The second is that nations will remain culturally unique and although there will be trade, nations will remain essentially isolated. The third prophesy, and the one Schweder believes is most likely, is the emergence of a global empire very similar in structure to the Ottoman Empire. The government body will collect taxes and protect individual cultures but do little more than that.
b) One indicator that could help predict the direction of global trade is language, specifically when looking at the "Westernization" prophecy. I believe that whether or not the English language continues to spread is an indication of the spread of western culture.
c) Culture plays a very important role in shaping economic outcomes. Economic ideology often comes from a societies' traditions. Culture determines whether a society is focused on equality or whether it is focused on self-interest. Some cultures place an emphasis on innovation and wealth and others look down upon lavish lifestyles.
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