The “Why” of The Lake Conundrum

Obviously, the simple answer is the puppet-master. He, as an individual, had knowledge of the issue and resources to fix the problem. Instead, he mislead the public, coerced elected officials, and destroyed the lake, all in the name of profits.

So yes, on the surface this antagonist is at fault for the destruction of the lake, but let’s delve a little deeper, shall we?

Corporation/Puppet-Master

Neither the corporation nor the puppet-master have an obligation to either the town or the lake. Both are held accountable by customers, employees, creditors, and shareholders. Therefore, the well-being of the lake is nowhere near the top of their priorities. They should be held accountable, but the question is not asking about accountability. Rather it asks about blame… Keep reading, I will explain what I mean.

Scientists

The scientists raised the alarm. However, their research was invalidated by the other scientists, who were hired by the puppet-master. Yes, these “other scientists” who accepted money to falsify the results are unscrupulous and should be stripped of their titles, degrees, etc., but they are hardly “most to blame.”

Voters

The lake is important to the townspeople, but they have been at odds over what to do. Due in part to misinformation and personal ties to the corporation. Therefore, when it comes time to vote, the decision is complex, at best. Aside from those who do not want restrictions on the corporation, because it may impact their employment, there are many who choose to look at the data supplied by the “other scientists.”

Think about it this way: A mechanic tells you that you need to spend $1000 in order to prevent a major breakdown of your car, several years from now. Another mechanic tells you that you have nothing to worry about. Sure, you could do some research, learn about the supposed issue, buy some diagnostic tools, and understand for yourself. However, most people do not have the time nor the energy to do this. So, they just pick a side… and hope that they are making the right choice.

Media

The media can definitely be blamed for reporting the false data, provided by the “other scientists.” Had the media done its job, they would have identified the link between the puppet-master and his corrupt scientists. This may have swayed public opinion, changed the outcome of the election, and saved the lake. However, there are too many “ifs” in between the media’s actions or lack thereof and the results for the lake.

For instance, the information may have had no impact on the election. It is easy to forget that problems such as this don’t exist in a vacuum, there are tons of other factors that impact who people vote for. Even if the lake issue was very important to the people of the town, there could have been other points which would have driven voters to re-elect the same politicians. Moreover, there is nothing to guarantee that new politicians would be any different than the previous bunch.

Politicians

I saved this group for last because they are fall into several specific categories:

1. They have the power to stop the pollution. Other than them, only the corporation and puppet-master have this specific option.

2. Unlike the corporation and puppet-master, the politicians have an obligation to their constituents — the voters — to do what is in the best interest of the town and its people.

3. Unlike the voters, the politicians have the resources to investigate conflicting information and ascertain the truth. They should have done more research, consulted unbiased experts, and obtained multiple opinions regarding the condition of the lake.

Therefore, it is this group that I would say is the “most to blame.”

The difference in blame and accountability is that blame establishes some fault or involvement. Of this, all the parties in this video are guilty. On the other hand, accountability implies ability to make choices that have a direct impact on the results.

It can further imply, that the those who have choices should face consequences. Even if the choice was to take no action, one can still be held accountable. For instance, just because you choose not to steer your car, does not excuse you from the accountability for the damage or injuries you cause to others.

Unfortunately, it appears that today’s elected officials quickly forget their oaths of office, and are never held accountable. Many simply fall-in, rank-and-file behind their party leaders or lobbyists who supported their campaigns. Afraid to stand-up for the people who elected them… To be their voice.

No, I am not saying that we should let those who cause the harm off the hook, quite the contrary — I believe it is high time that we impose accountability on those who we entrusted to serve and protect our communities, cities, states, and nation… and who have in turn failed us.

We need to hold accountable those politicians who violate the trust which we have placed in them. Whether due to negligence, personal or political gain, or whatever other excuse they may have… Or, perhaps we just wait till the next election. Your call.