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In the contemporary age where the digital world dominates our lives and globalization knits countries together Big Corporations, also known as Big Corp, seem to have an iron grip on our purchasing power. Some would argue our lives. The disturbing narrative of consumer rights getting trampled in the pursuit of relentless profits has been gathering momentum. Big Corp’s influence on public policies is often seen as an accomplice. Big Corp is running the show from behind the scenes.
The big question is – how did we arrive at this juncture? How has Big Corp taken such a dominant position seemingly transforming customers into pawns in the profit game? Big Corp profits off society’s strife even when they are the ones that have created that strife such as private prison and helping to pass laws against poverty stricken minorities.
Big Corp and its Influence on Public Policy
One of the primary ways Big Corp exerts control over consumer rights is through its substantial influence over public policy (lawmaking). These corporations have the resources to deploy a barrage of lobbyists, invest in political campaigns, and conduct public relations campaigns that sway public opinion pushing for regulatory changes that favor their bottom line. The irony is that the policies often framed under the guise of ‘economic liberalization’ or ‘promoting innovation’ can leave customers with fewer rights and choices.
An example of this can be seen in the net neutrality battle in the United States. Big telecommunications corporations lobbied hard against net neutrality regulations that would prevent them from controlling what content customers could access and at what speed. While the corporations argued this was necessary for innovation and economic growth, critics said it was a blatant move to quash consumer rights and control the digital landscape.
How Customers Are Getting Trampled
In many cases, a handful of corporations control the services and products we use daily. From technology to food and healthcare, a few industry giants dictate market terms. This lack of competition means that customers are often left with limited alternatives enabling Big Corp to dictate the conditions of service and prices. This leads to a situation where customers feel less like valued patrons and more like vassals in a corporate fiefdom.
Big Corp’s relentless drive for profits often results in underpaid and overworked employees leading to an erosion of customer service. The shift towards automation and AI while promising efficiency and 24/7 availability often means a loss of human touch in customer service making the resolution of complaints a frustrating ordeal for consumers. How many times have you struggled to find a phone number or even an email to customer support for a business you patronize?
Awakening to the Reality
The COVID-19 pandemic, despite its devastation, unveiled the stark reality of the consumer’s position in the face of Big Corp’s profit machine. As businesses cut back on staff and services the already thin veneer of customer service peeled away revealing an industry more interested in its bottom line than in the welfare of its customers or employees. Big Corp militantly protects itself from loss at the expense of consumers preying on its customer base.
The Path Forward
However, all is not lost. There is a growing consciousness among consumers who are increasingly expressing their views and advocating for fair business practices. Conscious consumerism which involves customers intentionally supporting businesses that align with their values has been gaining ground. Also, increased advocacy for stronger regulation of Big Corp and demands for greater corporate social responsibility signals a potential shift in the dynamic.
The struggle for consumer rights in the face of Big Corp’s growing power is an ongoing battle. Recognizing the tactics of Big Corp and acknowledging the issue is the first step toward reclaiming consumer rights. The path forward requires informed consumers, proactive policies, and ethical business practices. It’s a journey we need to embark on together. As customers, we are not just the lifeblood of businesses but we also hold the power to shape their future actions. After all, without us, there would be no Big Corp.
