This Giant Beast That is the Global Economy (4K UHD) Season 1 Episode 5

Ep 5. Counterfeiting Kills Economies (And Helps Them Too)

  • TV-MA
  • February 22, 2019
  • 45 min
  •   (31)

This Giant Beast That is the Global Economy is a documentary series that explores the intricate workings of the world's economy. Season 1, episode 5 is titled "Counterfeiting Kills Economies (And Helps Them Too)".

The episode begins by discussing the prevalence of counterfeit goods in the global economy and the impact this has on businesses and governments. Counterfeit goods are products that are made to resemble genuine goods but are produced without authorization and often with inferior quality materials, resulting in cheaper production costs.

Counterfeiting is a significant problem worldwide, with estimates of counterfeit goods costing the global economy hundreds of billions of dollars each year. The issue is far-reaching, affecting every sector from fashion to pharmaceuticals. Companies invest heavily in anti-counterfeiting measures, such as security features on banknotes and holograms on designer clothing, but counterfeiters are always looking for ways to bypass these measures.

The documentary explores the different types of counterfeit goods, from luxury handbags to electronics and prescription drugs. The dangers of counterfeit pharmaceuticals are highlighted, with interviews from experts who explain how fake drugs can lead to serious health consequences, including death. The episode also delves into the psychological factors that make consumers susceptible to purchasing counterfeit goods, such as the desire for a luxury item at a lower cost.

Despite the negative impact of counterfeit goods, the episode also explores how it can be beneficial to some economies. Counterfeit goods can give a boost to local economies in developing countries, where they provide jobs and income for communities. In some cases, counterfeit goods are even produced with the tacit approval of local governments, who see it as a way to stimulate their struggling economies.

However, the episode also highlights the connection between counterfeiting and organized crime. Counterfeit goods are often produced and distributed by criminal organizations, who also engage in other illegal activities such as drug trafficking and human smuggling. This creates a vicious cycle where counterfeit goods directly fund other illegal operations.

The documentary includes various interviews and perspectives from experts in the field of anti-counterfeiting, as well as from individuals who have been personally affected by counterfeit goods. The episode also explores the different strategies that governments and companies use to combat counterfeiting, such as increased regulation and technology advancements.

In conclusion, "Counterfeiting Kills Economies (And Helps Them Too)" is an informative episode that delves into the complex issue of counterfeit goods in the global economy. It sheds light on the negative impact of counterfeiting on businesses and governments, as well as the human cost of fake pharmaceuticals. At the same time, the episode acknowledges the difficult choices for individuals in developing countries who rely on counterfeiting for their livelihoods. Ultimately, the episode leaves the viewer with a greater understanding of the far-reaching consequences of counterfeiting on the global economy.

Description
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This Giant Beast That is the Global Economy (4K UHD), Season 1 Episode 5, is available to watch and stream on Amazon Studios. You can also buy, rent This Giant Beast That is the Global Economy (4K UHD) on demand at Amazon Prime online.
  • First Aired
    February 22, 2019
  • Content Rating
    TV-MA
  • Runtime
    45 min
  • Language
    English