Wednesday, September 5, 2012

The Price Isn't Right

posted by Erik

As a kid I tuned into the Price Is Right every now and then, or watched it with my grandma-- quality time. What I didn't realize was just how Awesome Bob Barker is!

Consider this:
  • He tried to stop the show from awarding tickets to Sea World and the Calgary Stampede as prizes because they aren't the bastions of animal care they purport to be
  • He asked the show to stop giving away fur coats and leather jackets
  • He's donated millions of dollars to animal causes
  • He told audience members every show: “Help control the pet population: Have your pets spayed or neutered”
He got dissed on the 40th anniversary show, now hosted by Drew Carey. Barker was the host for 35 years, retiring in 2007. He began his animal rights journey in 1979.

While I don't appreciate being told what to consume or limiting choices in the market, I can appreciate Barker not feeling right about being a participant or actor in transactions he would not make himself. While I don't wish to participate either I can also understand a person's choice to make choices I would not. We may disagree in whether animals should have a voice, or choice, but wouldn't disagree that we shouldn't be afforded that 'luxury'...ironic. To me its an act of aggression that brings animals to the market or table-- its force, not freedom, or freedom of force if you like. Barbarity or a lack of empathy in my mind, but perfectly natural behavior to others. Circuses, zoos, and animal theme parks or animals used as captive 'entertainment' is equally appalling in my mind. Thanks for being their voice, knowing the price, and being consistent Bob!

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