The Poisoned Apple

The radio show and New York Times article exposed a side of Apple that I had never seen before.  Those that produce Apple products in these Chinese factories remind me of the similar situation in Heart of Darkness.  Apple is one of the most powerful corporations in the world, and their electronics are the most valued.  In Heart of Darkness, ivory is valued as highly as our modern day Apple products.  The iPad article talks about how the workers in Chinese factories work in such dangerous conditions and put their health in great danger.  Mike Daisey reported that the ruler of China roughly thirty years ago made a deal with corporations that they can do whatever they want to their people (the Chinese) as long as they would have a "modern China."  This relates to the novel because those of technologically advanced areas came into the Congo for their economic benefit, used the natives as workers, and some attempted to modernize the area.

I also noticed that I have been somewhat ignorant when it comes to where all my "stuff" comes from.  I am guilty of blocking out some of the realities in our world, sort of like Marlow's aunt.  Daisey said that most of our "crap" is from a city in China that almost nobody could identify - Shenzhen.  Before hearing this podcast, I had never heard of Shenzhen.  It made me think about how I should be more aware of where all my good are coming from.  Did the radio show or article open your eyes to anything?

Comments

[Andrew D.]

For some reason, the radio show and the article did not have the profound impact on me that it seems to have had on other people. Although I think that there is definitely some "heart of darkness" that we are turning are backs to, these two pieces didn't convince me that this place is the Foxconn factory in China.

[Cristian d.]

I agree that out of all the major corporations it seems most significant that Apple has committed such atrocities. Apple sets itself apart from other companies in its marketing campaigns as being different and unique. In reality, however, Apple has committed just as many atrocities as other major corporations.

[Nate Mitka]

Michael, I noticed that you feel guilty about your stuff and that you said you would be more aware of where your stuff comes from. I understand how terrible all of the news may seem, but do you think that anything will change with the way you purchase your items and which items you obtain? I have a hunch that plenty of other gadgets and equipment have a similar story that apple has.

[Nate Mitka]

Michael, If you have the time I would absolutely love to hear your response to my inquiry, please.

[Zack W.]

Well Mike I do agree with your statement that I do have a lot of Apple products and both the article and radio show did open my mind. It amazing me that a very popular company such as Apple can get away with doing this. They make so much money and do very little to pay for the labor that goes into it. I noticed Nathan's comment and was wondering that it is possible to find different companies to purchase the same items. New companies are coming out with similar items to Apple and therefore it would be possible to change the company where you purchase your "gadgets and equiptment".