Final answer:
The statement attributing dependable service, flexibility, and detailed knowledge of specific requirements to global sourcing is false. Global sourcing's advantages are more related to cost savings and access to a global supplier base and expertise, while comparative advantage comes from various factors affecting productivity levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Historically, the statement that the advantages of global sourcing were more dependable service, greater flexibility, and detailed knowledge of the buyer's specific requirements is false. While global sourcing can provide a range of benefits, it is primarily associated with advantages such as access to a broader range of suppliers, cost savings, and the ability to tap into global expertise and technology. On the other hand, it can also introduce challenges like varying levels of service dependability, less direct control over the production process, and potential issues with communication and understanding specific needs due to cultural and language barriers.
Comparative advantage is not solely based on these factors, as suggested in the statement. It can arise from differences in productivity levels among economies, which can be influenced by a range of elements, including education of workers, knowledge base of engineers and scientists, specialization in certain parts of a value chain, and economies of scale.