Understanding Cooperatives

The video explores the concept of cooperatives (co-ops), highlighting their economic impact, historical origins, and various types. It explains the principles guiding co-ops, such as joint ownership, non-profit maximization, and democratic control. The video contrasts decision-making processes in co-ops with traditional companies, emphasizing the democratic nature of co-ops. It also discusses the success rates and worker satisfaction in co-ops compared to traditional businesses, showcasing the benefits of the cooperative model.

What is unique about the Park Slope Food Co-op compared to other grocery stores in Brooklyn?

• It has the highest sales per square foot.

• It is the smallest grocery store.

• It only sells organic products.

• It has a CEO.

What was the main reason the Rochdale Society of Equitable Pioneers was significant?

• It was the largest co-op in England.

• It was the first co-op to sell groceries.

• It was the first to publicize co-op principles.

• It was the first co-op ever.

Which of the following is NOT a type of cooperative mentioned?

• Retail co-op

• Worker co-op

• Producer co-op

• Consumer co-op

What is a key characteristic of all cooperatives?

• They are owned by outside shareholders.

• They are jointly owned by their members.

• They are founded to maximize profit.

• They have a hierarchical management structure.

How do cooperatives typically make decisions?

• By a board of directors only

• Based on stockholder votes

• Through a CEO's directive

• Democratically by their members

What is a significant difference in voting rights between traditional companies and co-ops?

• In traditional companies, voting is not allowed.

• In co-ops, every member has one vote.

• In traditional companies, every member gets one vote.

• In co-ops, voting rights are based on shares owned.

What is a notable policy difference at Mondragon compared to traditional companies?

• Management salaries are 143 times the lowest paid worker.

• There is no limit on worker salaries.

• Management salaries are capped at 6 times the lowest paid worker.

• Management salaries are unlimited.

What is a common outcome for co-op start-ups compared to traditional businesses?

• They are less likely to close within five years.

• They are more likely to close within five years.

• They never close.

• They have the same closure rate as traditional businesses.

What was the result of the extensive discussion at The Cheeseboard in the 1970s?

• The Cheeseboard advertised itself as a collective.

• The Cheeseboard decided to close.

• The Cheeseboard became a traditional company.

• The Cheeseboard stopped being a co-op.

What was a key finding from the study comparing co-op workers to traditional company workers?

• Co-op workers worked fewer hours.

• Co-op workers were about 40% happier with their jobs.

• Co-op workers had lower salaries.

• Co-op workers were less satisfied with their jobs.