Social Media’s International Division of Labour

"Social Media's International Division of Labour" by Fuchs explains the physical process of developing technologies like our laptops and smartphones. He details the work lifestyle for those who work for corporations that produce Apple products, like Foxconn. He introduces the reading by expressing the feelings of a Chinese iPhone engineer, as being "overworked and exhausted" (Fuchs, 206,) next a Cambodian ICT worker as being "exposed to toxic chemicals" (Fuchs, 206) and finally, an Indian software project manager as having to prioritize work over family. Each of these workers from different parts of the world are all struggling with issues in the workplace. However, they will not report them out of fear of losing their job. He explains an "unsaid rule" that is central in huge corporations that with a stressful job, employees are basically expected to work more than 12 hours so they can get the work done. Many people don't see a problem with this because of the demand for products like this in our society! 

There's a huge difference between workers in China and India, and in Silicon Valley. It is very evident. Employees in the USA are able to manage the demand for longer working hours because of their positive, safe, and healthy working conditions. They only evident problem that these workers complained about was trying to balance their social life with their work. This is very insignificant, in comparison to the demands of international workers. 

This makes me question Apple's authenticity, and I question a company more because they exploit their workers. However, it has not stopped me from buying their products. I own a Macbook and iPhone, and I probably will continue buying their products in the future. After reading about the treatment and exploitation of workers who produce products like Macbook's and iPhones, will you reconsider your next purchase? Do you think it is important to do research about the company labour standards before making a big purchase? Do you think it is society's fault for creating such a demand and overall hype for these products?