Final answer:
The statement concerning McDonald's achieving above-average returns through various strategies, including international expansion, is true. McDonaldization refers to the spread of the fast food business model, which has both positive and negative implications on society and McDonald's has implemented strategies to counteract criticism by focusing on individuality and quality, contributing to its continued global success.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement about McDonald's earning above-average returns through product innovations, enhancing existing facilities, and international expansion is true. McDonald's global presence and its practices are often associated with the concept of 'McDonaldization'. This refers to the increasing presence of the fast food business model in common social institutions and is characterized by efficiency, predictability, calculability, and control through the substitution of non-human for human technology.
The 'McDonaldization' effect has indeed seen some critique, suggesting a reduced variety of goods and an undervaluing of the work ethic due to highly routinized tasks dehumanizing workers. However, McDonald's has also recognized the need for 'de-McDonaldization', implementing strategies that focus on individuality and quality, thereby attempting to counteract some of the negative aspects associated with its traditional business model.
Furthermore, the fast-food chain's adaptability to local cultures and consistent innovation in its product offerings has helped McDonald's maintain its attractiveness and profitability in a challenging marketplace. International expansion into markets like Moscow, Russia contributes to McDonald's success by capitalizing on the global influence of the American Dream and American corporate culture, as seen in the domination of the English language on the Internet and the rise of the 'Americanized' consumer culture worldwide.