Carl John M.
Verocil
ABTH-3
Reflection to The corporation
by Mark Achbar and Jennifer Abbott
The Corporation by Mark Achbar and Jennifer Abbott is a thought-provoking
documentary that delves deep into the nature, power, and impact of modern
corporations. The film presents a comprehensive critique of corporations, examining
their rise, influence, and the often detrimental effects they have on society, the
environment, and individuals.One of the most striking aspects of the film is its
exploration of the concept of the corporation as a legal "person." This personhood,
granted through law, allows corporations to act independently of the individuals who run
them, granting them rights and protections similar to those of human beings. The film
questions the morality of this personhood, suggesting that if a corporation were a real
person, it might be diagnosed as a psychopath due to its singular focus on profit, often
at the expense of ethical considerations.
The film further examines how corporations have come to wield significant power,
often surpassing that of governments. Through lobbying, political donations, and other
means, corporations influence policies and regulations in their favor, sometimes with
little regard for public interest. This imbalance raises concerns about the erosion of
democratic processes and the prioritization of corporate interests over the well-being of
people and the planet.In addition to their economic and political influence, corporations
have also shaped cultural and social norms. The film discusses how advertising and
marketing campaigns perpetuate consumerism, manipulating desires and shaping
identities. The relentless pursuit of profit leads to environmental degradation,
exploitation of labor, and the commodification of nearly every aspect of life.
Carl John M. Verocil
ABTH-3
As I reflect on The Corporation, I am struck by the profound implications it has for
our understanding of the world we live in. The documentary challenges us to reconsider
the role of corporations in society and question the ethical implications of their actions. It
highlights the tension between the profit motive and the need for corporate
responsibility, urging viewers to think critically about the impact of their consumption
habits and the companies they support.The film also prompts a broader reflection on the
nature of capitalism itself. While corporations have undeniably contributed to economic
growth and innovation, the film makes it clear that unchecked corporate power can lead
to significant harm. The environmental destruction, social inequality, and ethical lapses
highlighted in the documentary are not just isolated incidents but systemic issues that
require a fundamental rethinking of how we approach business and economics.One of
the most powerful messages of the film is the idea that change is possible, but it
requires collective action. The documentary showcases various activists,
whistleblowers, and movements that have successfully challenged corporate power and
advocated for more ethical business practices. This serves as a reminder that
individuals and communities have the power to influence corporations, whether through
boycotts, advocacy, or supporting more responsible businesses.
In conclusion, The Corporation is a compelling call to action. It encourages viewers
to be more conscious of the corporations they interact with and to hold these entities
accountable for their actions. As consumers, employees, and citizens, we have a
responsibility to push for a more just and sustainable world, one where corporations
serve the public good rather than solely pursuing profit. This documentary not only
educates but also empowers, leaving viewers with a sense of urgency to engage in the
ongoing struggle for corporate accountability and social justice.
Carl John M. Verocil
ABTH-3
Summary
The Corporation by Mark Achbar and Jennifer Abbott, based on the book The
Corporation: The Pathological Pursuit of Profit and Power by Joel Bakan, is a
documentary that explores the nature, behavior, and impact of modern corporations.
The film argues that the corporation, as it exists today, has become the most powerful
institution in society, influencing every aspect of our lives, from the environment to
politics and beyond.The documentary is built around the idea that if a corporation were
a person, it would exhibit many of the traits associated with a psychopath. This
comparison is made because corporations, by law, are required to prioritize profit over
all other concerns, even if this means causing harm to people, communities, or the
environment. The film illustrates this through a series of interviews, case studies, and
historical examples.Various experts, including economists, historians, and activists like
Noam Chomsky, Michael Moore, and Naomi Klein, provide insight into how corporations
operate. They discuss the legal history of corporations, explaining how they gained the
rights of "personhood" under the law. This legal status allows them to act in ways that
benefit their interests, often at the expense of the common good.
The documentary highlights several key issues, such as environmental pollution,
exploitation of workers, and the manipulation of consumers through advertising. It also
examines the role of corporations in shaping government policies, often leading to laws
that favor business interests over public welfare.Throughout the film, the viewer is
shown how corporations have been able to amass tremendous power, often with little
accountability. The documentary challenges the audience to think critically about the
role of corporations in society and whether there should be stronger regulations to
ensure that these entities act in more socially and environmentally responsible ways.
In summary, The Corporation is a critical examination of how corporations operate in
today's world. It raises important questions about the impact of corporate behavior on
society and the planet, urging viewers to consider the need for change in how
businesses are regulated and held accountable.
