We live in a very futuristic age. We can electronically send messages with our voices or with text, download music, play games, record video, watch TV , and even take pictures all with the same device. Because of this our electronic devices are becoming deeply ingrained in our lives to the point that it's getting hard to live without them. Unfortunately, recent events have reminded us that just because something is important to us, or extremely useful, doesn't mean that its been ethically made.
Within the last couple of years Foxconn, a manufacturer of goods such as the ipad and and kindle has been under public scrutiny due to the suicides of many workers. A closer look at the conditions of the factories has led to some insight as to why the suicides occurred. Employees have released complains as to Foxconn's authoritarian structure and long hours. A saying amongst the workers is "they use women as men and men as machines." Apple has now hired the Fair Labor Association (FLA) to inspect the factories that make their products.
Unfortunately current steps towards fair trade electronics have stopped at the factory floor. As we know it is not just about the products being made but also the materials they are made from. Many of the minerals are from African mines under the control of government militias who use them as a means of oppressing their people. However we can not lose hope. It could take years before changes can be made at that deep of a
level, but that doesn't mean we should give up. If anything this entire situation is an encouragement to keep the movement strong. It's because such injustices as the mistreatment of Foxconn workers were brought to the attention of consumers that the companies affiliated made steps toward change. As consumers we have the power to maneuver the market, and if distributors know that we will not support unethical practices, then their practices will be made ethical. Hiring the FLA is a small step, but it has the potential to be a giant leap for the electronic market.
level, but that doesn't mean we should give up. If anything this entire situation is an encouragement to keep the movement strong. It's because such injustices as the mistreatment of Foxconn workers were brought to the attention of consumers that the companies affiliated made steps toward change. As consumers we have the power to maneuver the market, and if distributors know that we will not support unethical practices, then their practices will be made ethical. Hiring the FLA is a small step, but it has the potential to be a giant leap for the electronic market.
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