login about faq

Is it correct for government to shut down "dirty" coal plants? Since mercury is a known human health hazard, and because there are many other forms of energy production, does such a shutdown fall under the government protecting individuals from physical harm rule? (one of the few proper functions of government)

asked Aug 23 '12 at 18:23

orb85750's gravatar image

orb85750
905


In principle, the question is correct, subject to some qualifications. Refer to the topics of "Pollution" and "Ecology/Environmental Movement" in The Ayn Rand Lexicon.

answered Aug 24 '12 at 02:09

Ideas%20for%20Life's gravatar image

Ideas for Life ♦
364713

I am generally for industrial progress. It is clear that it brought about unprecedented benefits to man. But the "negative externalities" cannot be swept under the rug. People in Chinese towns die from polluted river water, the Minamata mercury disaster did sicken and kill Japanese people etc. Is there anything between the two extreme poles of "all industry is good" and "no industry is good" positions? Clearly owners of industrial firms don't always behave morally (Bhopal, India) and there is damage to nature and people that certain industries can perpetrate. Is this just to be ignored?

(Aug 24 '12 at 10:30) Danneskjold_repo Danneskjold_repo's gravatar image

Follow this question

By Email:

Once you sign in you will be able to subscribe for any updates here

By RSS:

Answers

Answers and Comments

Share This Page:

Tags:

×16
×11
×10

Asked: Aug 23 '12 at 18:23

Seen: 249 times

Last updated: Aug 24 '12 at 10:30