25 November 2010 | Peter Searle
4 stars
Never willing to shy away from an argument, Channel 4 aired this provocative documentary, followed by a studio debate, discussing how the views expressed by many environmentalists have become outdated and counter-productive.
It focused mainly on former
anti-genetically modified (GM) food protester Mark Lynas and environmental writer Stewart Brand, once strong supporters of the green movement, but now harsh critics.
The show’s theme was to present the position of environmentalists on nuclear power and GM produce as reactionary and lacking in scientific merit. However, it did this in a distinctly unsubtle way. Images of Chernobyl and African famines were woven with statistics directly contradicting the common claims of the environmental lobby. The documentary also implied GM food could have saved millions of lives if not for the scare-mongering of the ‘Frankenfood’ protests. This may have persuaded many undecided viewers.
The show did manage to educate viewers on some of the more contradictory elements of environmentalist doctrine. It was fascinating to watch, even if the opinions presented lacked balance.
By pointing out holes in the green movement’s arguments, programmes like this could change public opinion on controversial issues. If the accompanying debate is an indicator, this is already starting to happen.
* Peter Searle
