The Corporation- Documentary
“A corporation is designated a legal person under law. What kind of person would it be?
–Answer: A psychopath.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5nFQDQMJARs
(6-40min)
My Learning Goals:
- I am learning to understand the legal rights and responsibilities of a corporation
- I am learning to analyze the nature and importance of corporate social responsibility
- I am learning to raise awareness of the role that corporations play in social and
environmental issues
Some Leading Questions: AAL
1. What is a corporation?
Corporation is a form of business ownership, groups of people working together to serve
a variety of objectives. The principle of this is earning large, growing, sustained legal
returns for the people who own the business.
2. What kind of person is the corporation?
The film draws on the diagnostic criteria for psychopathy, a personality disorder characterized
by traits such as ruthlessness, deceitfulness, lack of empathy, and a disregard for the rights of
others.
3. Harm to workers:
- Exploitative Labor Practices
- Union Busting
- Unsafe Working Environments
- Outsourcing and Job Insecurity
4. Harm to human health:
Dangerous side-effect of drugs
Toxic Chemicals and Pollution
Genetic Modification and Agriculture
Fast Food Industry
5. Harm to animals:
Factory Farming - lack of proper nutrition, and the use of growth hormones and
antibiotics.
Animal Testing - toxicity tests, cosmetic testing, and pharmaceutical trials.
To-do:
* Please write a succinct two-page (400-500 words) reflection based on the issues discussed in
the documentary video “The Corporation”.
*While writing the reflection, consider the leading question: Why is CSR important to
corporations?
"The Corporation," a thought-provoking documentary directed by Jennifer Abbott and Mark Achbar,
offers a critical examination of the modern corporation and its impact on society. The film delves
deep into the nature of corporations, treating them as legal persons, and explores their behavior,
ethics, and influence on various aspects of our lives. Watching this documentary provides valuable
insights into the multifaceted world of corporations and prompts viewers to reflect on their
significance in today's society.
One of the central themes of the documentary is the pursuit of profit at any cost, often at the
expense of ethical considerations, environmental sustainability, and social welfare. Through
compelling case studies and interviews with experts, "The Corporation" showcases instances where
corporations prioritize financial gains over human well-being and environmental preservation. These
examples serve as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by unregulated corporate power.
The documentary also sheds light on the concept of corporate personhood, which grants
corporations legal rights and protections similar to those of individuals. By analyzing historical cases
where corporations have been granted personhood status, the film challenges our understanding of
corporate entities and raises important questions about their accountability and responsibility.
One of the key takeaways from "The Corporation" is the critical need for corporate social
responsibility (CSR) and ethical business practices. In today's interconnected world, corporations
wield significant influence over economies, politics, and communities. As such, it is crucial for them
to recognize their impact and act responsibly. The documentary underscores the importance of
corporations embracing a triple bottom line approach, considering not only profits but also social
and environmental factors in their decision-making processes.
Furthermore, "The Corporation" serves as a wake-up call for consumers and policymakers alike. It
highlights the power consumers possess in shaping corporate behavior through their purchasing
choices and demands for transparency and ethical practices. Additionally, the documentary
advocates for robust regulations and policies to hold corporations accountable for their actions,
ensuring they contribute positively to society rather than solely pursuing profit.
In conclusion, "The Corporation" offers a compelling and critical exploration of the role of
corporations in our world. By exposing their complexities, the documentary emphasizes the
importance of responsible corporate behavior, ethical decision-making, and the need for vigilant
oversight. As viewers, we are challenged to reconsider our relationship with corporations, advocate
for ethical practices, and actively engage in shaping a more sustainable and equitable future.