International Relations and the Global Environment, Article Review Example

The capitalist ideology of the ecological crisis obscures the systematic nature. For the capitalist, the crisis dimensions are viewed as local problems and/or opportunities for future profit. In reference to this profit, Wallis is referring to “the spread of toxins, the depletion of vital goods, and the increasingly intrusive and reckless manipulation of basic natural processes” (1). The difference between capitalist ideology and socialist ideology is that green capitalism pays attention to green issues; however, the green issues are not priorities and this is completely different. The socialist ideology is more focused on the priorities of the greener environment rather than the money it exposes or how the money is involved. The socialist is one who is willing to do for the environment in order to keep the environment clear of toxins, pollution, and much more. However, though the capitalist does not ignore the environmental crisis, the capitalist ideology responds to it differently than does the socialist ideology. Wallis examines this in great detail throughout his article. I believe that the capitalist views are a little obtrusive. I think it is important to want to do good for the environment because we, as a nation, want to make the place better for citizens and animals alike. The socialist is there to do these things. The capitalist is there to make money off of these things. I think it is important to make money as a country and as a company; however, I do not think that it is right to put money before the health of individuals or the environment. We need our environment clear of toxins in order to have a functioning economy, both financially and environmentally. I think it is important to quote Wallis as he states “corporations have been alert to opportunities for making environmentally positive adjustments where these coincide with standard business criteria of efficiency and cost-reduction…more importantly, corporations have acted directly on the political stage, with an exceptionally free hand in the U.S. case” (3).. Efficiency and cost-reduction is important; however, our environment and the preservation of that environment is of utmost importance to me and many others.