Countrywide Financial

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Assignment 1

For assignment 1 please read Case 8 "Countrywide Financial: The Subprime Meltdown" in your text. Answer the questions in a paper format. Please use the methods and formats outlined in the syllabus.

Please submit this assignment as an .rtf document through the Assignment link in Module 1 or in the Assignments tab.

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Module 2 Assignment

Watch the video “Ethics and Social Responsibility featuring Organic Valley” (The link for this video in in Module 2).

Video Overview:

Paul Deutsch of Sweet Ridge Organic Dairy in Wisconsin is a supplier for Organic Valley dairy cooperative. He originally worked on a conventional farm, but left to start his own dairy, as he did not like how conventional methods treated the cows or the land. He knew there had to be a better, healthier way of raising cattle and producing more healthful dairy products. Deutsch resolved to become an organic supplier for the cooperative. 

Organic farmers are different from conventional farmers in that they are required by law to manage their property in a more environmentally conscious manner. Deutsch indicates that organic has taken on an increasingly positive connotation and that growing numbers of consumers have come to trust the word “organic” as they become more informed and more concerned about health and the environment. While the inputs into organic farming are more expensive, Deutsch argues that the cows are healthier, live longer, and require less medical care.

Also, organic product command higher market prices. For Deutsch and other farmers at Organic Valley, being organic is a more profitable and more rewarding venture than conventional farming. In terms of the bottom line and in terms of reputation, being organic and eco-friendly makes the most sense for Organic Valley and its suppliers. 

Answer the following questions: 

1. Why did it make sense for Paul Deutsch to convert to organic farming? What individual ethical factors were involved in his choice? ...