ASSIGNMENT This week we are talking about protecting the public consumer from the harmful practices of corporations. We also explored issues associated with the politicization of water. As human beings we need clean air, water and food in order to survive. These are essentials to our life, health and well being. Corporations for many years have polluted the waters in their processes for manufacturing and making products. In order for Americans to have clean water, air and food, corporations must be regulated. However, all regulations come at a cost, to the corporation and eventually to the consumer. Corporations are embedded in our criminal justice system for profit. They are embedded in our educational systems for profit. They are embedded in our politics and laws of this country. They are embedded in the conflicts that exists in the country, as they provide support to various causes, both good and bad. As I have said so many times in our course, we already have enough laws on the books to address many issues. The laws however, are not always enforced. Laws that pertain to corporations are highly politicized. But this is a deadly game, that we are playing, when we do not enforce the laws that pertain to life: clean air, water and food. We are back to the idea of zip codes. People living in certain zip codes will have clean air, water and food. While others may not have the same essentials for health, safety and life. 1. Review this article on the origins of the EPA: Origins of the EPA. 2. How can we de-politicize this very important agency, so that it works as intended to protect the entire public in every zip code? 3. What should be the consequences of corporations and politicians who violate the laws and regulations and harm the public? 4. My last question for the semester is do you think there is a better way to ensure that every citizen has clean water, air and food? Please explain your ideas and concepts on how we can improve this situation and ensure our safety