Privatization of Water

Environmental Studies > Economics and Policy
Environmental Studies > Environmental Problems
Political Science

Compares and contrasts two articles on the privatization of water: Water Is a Human Right" by the Council of Canadians' Blue Planet Project and Joshua Ortega's "Water Wars: Bottling up the World's Supply of H2O".

1,058 words () | 2 sources | MLA | 2008 United States

Paper Summary:

In this essay, the writer looks at the articles "Water Is a Human Right" by the Council of Canadians' Blue Planet Project and "Water Wars: Bottling up the World's Supply of H2O" by Joshua Ortega. The writer notes that the two articles share a common theme: that the privatization of drinking water resources is harmful and dangerous. The writer discusses that authors differ, however in how they appeal to readers, the techniques employed to create common ground with their audience, the political/economic philosophy employed and solutions suggested.

From the Paper:

"Ortega also uses an analogy between the oil crisis and an impending water crisis. He attempts to frighten readers that future wars over water will be far worse than today's over oil. He refers to the scandal-ridden former energy corporation Enron several times. Neither author acknowledges opposing points of view. It could be suggested that governments can regulate privatized water companies or that competition among such companies could lead to more and cheaper water - the idea behind free market capitalism.
"The authors differ in the techniques used to promote reader action. Ortega suggests a set of primarily feel good options for American consumers - all within the context of America's democratic process. The C.C. speaks to what organizations can achieve than what individuals can do."

Sample of Sources Used:

Council of Canadians. Blue Planet Project. Ottawa, Ontario. 25 May 2007 <http://www.blueplanetproject.net>.
Ortega, Joshua. "Water Wars: Bottling Up the World's Supply of H2O." The Seattle Times 21 Mar. 2005. 25 May 2007 <http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/opinion/2002213327_sundaywater20.html>.