Question

in 200 words write about in direct reference to the Machan article "Environmentalism Humanized" (under readings on Canvas) and the film The Yes Men Fix the Planet, please discuss the following: in your opinion is the approach that the Yes Men take in any one of their farcical ploys a way of creating value in the sense that Machan discusses? Please pick one "prank" depicted in the film and discuss how it either creates value or does not. Remember to explain key terms (hint: you will want to describe exactly what Machan means by value creation and how it works). Also, please remember to refer to the guidelines in the syllabus for reflection specifics outside this prompt.

Answer 1

In his article "Environmentalism Humanized," Tibor Machan argues that environmentalism should shift its focus from nature-centric to human-centric values. According to Machan, the most effective way to promote environmental values is to demonstrate how they benefit human well-being. He believes that the market system, with its emphasis on innovation and efficiency, can best serve the goals of environmentalism. Machan contends that by creating value for humans, environmental protection can become a sustainable and profitable enterprise.

The film "The Yes Men Fix the Planet" shows two activists, Andy Bichlbaum and Mike Bonanno, who use satire and pranks to draw attention to environmental issues. One of their pranks involves a fake press conference in which they announce that Dow Chemical will compensate the victims of the Bhopal disaster, which resulted in the deaths of thousands of people in India due to a gas leak. The Yes Men's goal was to shame Dow Chemical into taking responsibility for the disaster.

In my opinion, The Yes Men's approach can create value in the sense that Machan discusses. The Dow Chemical prank highlights the company's failure to address the needs of those affected by its operations. The prank generates public attention and criticism that could pressure Dow Chemical to take more responsibility for its actions. By drawing attention to the issue, the prank could lead to positive changes in the company's behavior.

Furthermore, the prank highlights the inadequacies of government regulations in protecting the public from corporate harm. This could lead to a public demand for stronger regulations that could prevent similar disasters in the future. The prank can also create a sense of solidarity among those who share the activists' concerns, leading to greater public support for environmental protection.

In conclusion, The Yes Men's approach, while unconventional, can create value in the sense that Machan discusses. The Dow Chemical prank draws attention to environmental issues and can generate public pressure for positive change. The prank highlights the need for stronger regulations and can build public support for environmental protection.

*IG:whis.sama_ent*