Poisoned Profits

Poisoned Profits concludes with a section on corporate reform. The Shabecoff’s write, “Taming corporate power and its abuses will take far more than ineffectual regulatory Band-Aids, fines, and a few prison sentence” (251). Years ago the Shabecoff’s sounded the warning call against the over-powerful position of corporations in American society and the risks associated with treating businesses like people. These points remain pertinent to our country’s current situation. Ironically, before the Gulf oil spill on April 20, BP was a finalist for the Mineral Management Service’s SAFE award. It sadly took another major catastrophe to produce a public outcry, despite environmentalists reporting violations and lack of transparency in these companies for decades. Now the question remains whether or not the new regulations being put into place in Washington will remain simply a “Band-Aid.” The fact the Poisoned Profits did not receive the same controversial reception as Silent Spring in the 1960s worries me. The Shabecoff’s hoped that their book would inspire social action and transform the political structure, but as of yet, it does not seem to have sparked a call to action except within the academic strata. I hope someday this book will make it to mainstream audiences, because I believe it is an important overview of the dangers facing our planet.

Meeting the Shabecoff’s really added to the experience of reading the book. I was shocked to hear the NYTimes fired Philip for being too “pro-environment” but felt inspired to see a couple believe so passionately in these issues and willingly face adversity in order to share their message. Each of the speakers thus far on the JBS program finished by asking us what we plan to do to help the environment. I personally appreciate the challenge, especially since it is not a particular generation’s problem but requires the efforts of all ages and nations.
-Tiffany