Journeyman Philosopher

Perhaps one of the most dire threats of the 20th and 21st centuries is the privatization of water.

This may be an unfounded opinion of mine, but shouldn’t all humans have the right to the basic necessities of survival (IE food, shelter, and water)?

Every time we buy a water bottle we make a vote for this privatization. What are we paying for? Many say for the specific type of water and/or the treatment process but these are often nonexistent. I believe a recent law that forced water companies in Canada to display where there water was coming from revealed that over 90% of bottled water came from the tap. As well there is a case in Canada in which Safeway was indicted with packaging tap water directly without any filtration process.

So what are we paying for? Usually tap water.

The documentary ‘Thirst’ greatly touches on this issue. ‘What is the point?’ it asks. Why are we selling what could easily be considered a universal right? We get it for free out of the tap, and it is necessary for survival. Isn’t it wrong to take this away from someone? I do, however, understand that the concept of universal right may be finicky but…. come on be a nice guy!!!

Perhaps this opinion is unfounded and that may be (as we do pay for food and shelter which I as well believe are universal rights). But what is a fact is that if you do buy water you place a vote for its privatization. With the ethics aside think about what you as an individual believes is right. And if it isn’t full privatization of water than hold back on your next purchase.

Big differences start with small changes, acknowledge your side!