Question

In the film (around 2:08-2:11) the people in the town of Arcata CA are discussing the role that corporations should play in a democratic society. Some of the people are concerned about the great influence that corporations play in our society, and want to make corporations more accountable to the people. One man who seems opposed to passing legislation that restricts the activities of the corporations suggests that we all have the power to vote with our wallets. He says that if you don't approve of what a corporation does, then you simply should not use its products or services. In his mind, this is sufficient for keeping corporations under the control of the people.

(a) Do you think about the people can make corporations act in an ethically responsible way by voting with their wallets?
(b) What are some of the benefits and problems with this idea of voting with your wallet? (hint: consider the idea that people who have bigger wallets get more votes)?
(c) Would it be fair to give people voting powers based on their wealth? For example, would it be fair for people who have between one and two million dollars get two votes instead of one vote (in an election), and people with between two and three million dollar get three votes etc...

Answer 1

(a) Sure, the people can make corporations act in an ethically responsible way, in other words, Acting in ways consistent with what society and individuals typically think are good values.

(b) This speaks to corporate social responsibility, by voting the people are able to control the corporations in a way that makes them more socially responsible. Voting could also give people with bigger wallets, higher levels of control.

(c) No, it will not be fair; there has to be a cordial relations between the corporations and the people, hence if the people are given voting power based on their wealth, it could create some level of disunity.

Step-by-step explanation:

(a) Sure, the people can make corporations act in an ethically responsible way, in other words, Acting in ways consistent with what society and individuals typically think are good values.

(b) This speaks to corporate social responsibility, by voting the people are able to control the corporations in a way that makes them more socially responsible. Voting could also give people with bigger wallets, higher levels of control.

(c) No, it will not be fair; there has to be a cordial relations between the corporations and the people, hence if the people are given voting power based on their wealth, it could create some level of disunity.