Jones,+Russ+Film+Annotation+III+(Homo+Toxicus)

Russell E Jones Sustainability Problems Film Annotation III Home Toxicus

Homo Toxicus is a film that was directed and written by Carole Poliquin; released in 2008. The central argument of the film is that the use of toxins in production of most products, pesticides and many other unexpected items are becoming a serious health problem because they are being infused into the human population. The film draws out the problem of the sustainability of the human race and the growing level of toxins within the average human’s body. Disease, Impotence, and Birth issues are becoming more and more common because of the toxins we use in manufacturing. From my perspective the most compelling parts of the film were the results of Carole Poliquins blood tests when she discovered that she had a more than average levels of toxins within her body. Being a male, the segment about impotence in males due to chemicals passed into water was particularly persuasive in regard convincing the severity of the issue. The least compelling and persuasive parts of the film was the explanation of issues with hyperactivity in children as a result the presence of toxins in the environment as there are many social issues that contribute to hyperactivity in children. Physical health concerns seem to be a more serious threat than minor psychological issues. On a personal level this film compels me to seek out healthy ways of eating and ways to avoid toxin filled products. It also encourages me to find some information on viable alternative for toxins that are used in everyday agricultural and industrial processes. The film persuades many to consider action for stronger restraints on the use of the chemicals in manufacturing by government agencies. Homo Toxicus is a well done film that best addresses not only those who have a particular interest in sustainability problems but also for the general population from middle school years and up. The flow of the film makes for an easy viewing while delivering much information and well-thought perspectives on the issues. If the film was to receive greater exposure, it could influence people to call for the use of fewer toxins in production. After seeing this film, people would be more likely to make more conscious consumer decisions, while shaping the market as they control it. The film mostly suggests government intervention in particular with the prevention of the use of hormones in cattle production and prevention of pesticides in agriculture. Consumer intervention is also suggested, changing the demands on the market can change the goods produced.  The film conveys different sides on the issues but it is focused in one direction, which is what is needed in order to instigate action. The film promotes advances in scientific literacy as it explains many different toxins and how can affect the human population. The film enrolls views more than preach as the viewers follow the director through her journey in discovering the issues with toxins today. The film features some case studies of individuals who have been harmed by the presence of toxins throughout our environment.