Describe them along the dimensions we have discussed in class (property rights, control of the production process, control over the product itself, etc.). -

The assignment is about analyzing the story by B. Traven in ways that integrate some of what we
have seen in class up to now. This note is intended to clarify what the assignment is and to assist
you in the crafting of a response.
The story is about a New Yorker who goes to visit Mexico and meets an “indian” who makes
small canastitas in an artisanal manner. The New Yorker sees a business opportunity and
proposes him a contract to make many baskets, but the “Indian” resists, notably by quoting a
fairly hefty price for his canastitas.
The main point of the assignment is to tell me what you make of the story in light of what we
have discussed so far. In doing so, you should let your creativity run free and strive for
originality.

That is to say, you may answer in which ever form you want (via a dialogue with
Simone, a play, a movie scriipt, a straight essay, a poem, a song, etc.), and focus on the aspects
you want. I will be looking for some reference to what we’ve been talking about in class up to
now, but that’s the only constraint.
That said, the following are a few things you may want to discuss in your answer.
1. What are the different modes of production (economic systems) in presence, that of the
“Indian” and that which is proposed by the New Yorker?
a. Describe them along the dimensions we have discussed in class (property rights,
control of the production process, control over the product itself, etc.)
b. In what way do they differ? In ways are they similar (if any)?
2. The “Indian” is resisting partly because of the transformation of the production process
that is implied by a switch to mass production.
a. What are the changes he mentions? Are there other ones that are implied?
i. Are there any qualitative changes to the product?
ii. Are there any changes in terms of the work conditions of the producers?
b. Do you feel the “Indian” gets satisfaction from the process as it currently stands,
enjoying his position as producer?
i. If so, how may this help explain his reluctance to switch? (some details in
the answer would be useful)
c. Do you think this resistance is reasonable? Why or why not?
3. Do you think this story is a metaphor for larger processes that have taken place in the US
or in other countries in the world?
a. Capitalism has been expanding, replacing other modes of production throughout
time.
i. What, if anything, has been gained or lost in that process?
ii. Do you feel that this expansion of capitalism has led to “progress”? If so
why, if not why not? (there as well you may give a nuanced response)