China vs. The World

I did a little informal research today at my local mall. I went to the glassware section and perused the selection of stemware, tableware, vases, pitchers and ceramics. What I found wasn't surprising, but was a little saddening. I looked at over 50 pieces of glass and ceramics and found only one that was made in America. It was a set of ceramic coasters that were hand painted. The majority of what I found was made in China or as some put PRC (Peoples Republic of China). I found several made in Italy, Turkey, Poland, Portugal and Spain. Most of the non-Chinese manufactured glassware was highly decorated and very specialized. 

Hearing Dean Six speak of what West Virginia and America used to make and seeing the lack of representation today brings his message home. It appears that most people today are more interested in cheap, mass produced items from overseas than American made products that help our economy. I remember "buy American" campaigns in past years that sought to encourage American bought goods. Unfortunately, it appears it was too little and too long ago.

Questions for consideration:
1. Why would products made and shipped from thousands of miles away be less expensive than products made locally?
2. How could America and West Virginia in particular turn this pattern of products and jobs being sent overseas and see a resurgence in American made goods? What barriers do you see to your plan?
3. How could you help revive the "buy American" advertising campaign today?
4. Several Appalachian coal companies have recently signed contracts with China to sell them coal from our area. Obviously, this keeps West Virginians employed in the coal industry. Do you believe this is offsets the loss of other specialized jobs locally? Explain.