The latest petition I have seen online is one started to "Free The Dolphins" at RWS. It got me thinking, what is the use of such a petition.
The fundamental aim of any profit-making organization is precisely that, profits. It aims to maximize profits. If keeping dolphins in captivity allows them to increase revenue and as a by-product, increase profits, would a 1000-signature petition coerce them to free the dolphins? I highly doubt so. Not after much effort (A huge assumption here) was put into obtaining government approval and most definitely not after paying for the infrastructure to house them.
So, back to the main point. What is the purpose of such a petition? Awareness? But that can be easily achieved through articles that spread through social media portals like wildfire. Does having a certain number of signatures increase awareness? Doubt so. In fact, I feel most petitions are a waste of resources... resources that could be put to better use increasing awareness of the situation.
Want to free the dolphins? Simple. Spread the word to a large number of people such that they boycott the establishment. When it proves unprofitable, they will be released.
1 comment:
There's this new up and coming triple bottom line concept. apart from the usual financial bottom lime, a company would also measure itself in areas such as environment and social impact.
You'll also see the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility being thrown up and about more often.
For example, the company that makes colgate toothpaste even has a VP for Ethics & CSR.
It'll be a matter of time when consumers take CSR and ethics into account when making their purchasing decisions.
Post a Comment