Question

John refuses to buy Japanese products because he sees this as a way of selling out to a nation known for its aggressive behavior. John uses a self-reference criterion to make his decision. What is the reason behind John's refusal to buy Japanese products?

1) He believes that buying Japanese products supports a nation known for its aggressive behavior
2) He thinks that buying Japanese products is a form of selling out
3) He has a self-reference criterion that influences his decision
4) He wants to avoid products from aggressive nations

Answer 1

John refuses to buy Japanese products because his self-reference criterion leads him to view the purchase as support for an aggressive nation or selling out. His actions mirror international trade decisions made by nations to protect cultural identity and national security interests.

Step-by-step explanation:

John's decision to not purchase Japanese products stems from his self-reference criterion, a tendency to use one's own cultural values to judge the behavior of others. In this case, John sees not purchasing Japanese products as avoiding support for a nation he views as aggressive, as well as a way to avoid what he perceives as 'selling out.' This behavior reflects a broader concept where individuals or nations make decisions in relation to international trade that are influenced by national security, cultural identity, or protecting domestic industries.

For instance, nations often restrict trade to protect industries crucial to their cultural identity or national security. A classic example is Japan's protection of its rice market, due to the crop's significant cultural importance, despite other nations having a comparative advantage in rice production.