The Ethics of Corporate Behavior:

A Reflection on Achbar & Abbott’s “The Corporation”

The modern corporation is a fascinating entity, with a legal status as a particular
individual that grants it a distinct set of rights and privileges. The behavior of corporations
toward society and the world at large should be examined in an identical way that a psychiatrist
would evaluate an ordinary person. On the one hand, corporations are powerful entities that have
advanced technology, medicine, and other fields significantly. On the other hand, they have
caused significant social and environmental harm, and their behavior has been described as
sociopathic or even psychopathic at times.
The documentary explores the impact of corporations on society. It provides an in-depth
look into the workings of corporations and their influence on various aspects of our lives.
Throughout the video, a critical perspective is presented on corporations and highlights their
negative impacts on society and the environment. One of the key arguments of the video is that
corporations have evolved into a powerful institution that prioritizes profit over everything else.
The video explains that corporations are legally obligated to maximize shareholder value, which
often leads to unethical practices such as the exploitation of labor and resources. The video also
highlights how corporations have too much power and influence in politics, often leading to
policies that favor the interests of corporations over the well-being of the people.
The discussion of the relationship between corporations and the environment is one of its
most thought-provoking aspects. The documentary contends that corporations have a significant
environmental impact and are frequently responsible for environmental degradation and
pollution. It also shows how corporations frequently use greenwashing and other marketing
techniques to create the appearance of environmental responsibility while continuing to engage
in environmentally harmful practices. Another critical issue addressed in the video is the impact
of corporations on social justice. The video explains how corporations frequently profit from
exploiting vulnerable communities in both developed and developing countries. The video shows
how corporations frequently engage in practices like sweatshop labor, child labor, and
environmental racism, all of which disproportionately affect marginalized communities.
Overall, "The Corporation" is a thought-provoking and informative documentary that
sheds light on corporations' complex and often contentious role in modern society. The video
takes a critical look at corporations, emphasizing their negative impact on society and the
environment. The video also emphasizes the importance of corporations being held accountable
for their actions, as well as policies that prioritize the well-being of people and the environment
over corporate interests.