For generations, books by Dr. Seuss have been read to and by children. His books were often commentaries on social and political issues; for example, Yertle the Turtle had a theme based on totalitarianism, The Sneetches dealt with discrimination, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas criticized the commercialization of holidays. The lorax discusses the threat to the environment.
The principal character in the lorax is the Once-ler, who represents business. He cuts down the beautiful Truffula Trees to make a Thneed, which could be used for many things including shirts, hats, or gloves. The Lorax, a small, "mossy" creature who spoke for the trees and animals in the forest, asked the Once-ler to stop cutting down the Truffula Trees. But the Once-ler recognized the market potential of the Thneed and he set up a factory to manufacture even more of them.
The business grew bigger and the Once-ler cut down more and more trees to meet the demand. Animals that depended on the Truffula Trees lost their source of food. Smog and water pollution were created by the factories. The Once-ler said he had rights and was going to continue his business expansion. Eventually the last Truffula Tree was down, ending the production of Thneeds. The Once-ler realized his mistake and asked the readers to take the last Truffula Tree seed and plant it, take care of it, and protect it from those who want to chop it down.
Dr. Seuss wanted to make several points: the planet faces environmental problems such as pollution and the depletion of resources; these problems have serious implications for society; and there is some urgency necessary to address them. The story delivers a message that business is rapidly destroying the environment and that things will not change until people start to care and do something to stop the destruction.
In March 2012 the animated movie The lorax was released to theatres in 2-D and 3-D. Most reviewers felt that it followed the book's pro-environmentalism and anti-capitalism themes. The movie stressed the dangers of overconsumption and corporate greed, and the virtue of conservation. There was a consensus that the movie was very colourful, the musical numbers were mediocre, and the voices of the characters were excellent. Many reviewers felt that young audiences might be influenced by the warnings against rampant capitalism which led to deforestation.
The story both in print and on-screen is very pessimistic and treats the business system harshly, and may be giving children an overly negative view of business. The positive aspects of the business system are not discussed; for example, explaining how business is essential to ensuring a high standard of living, how it creates employment, and how it provides innovative products and services. The story does not suggest that the environment and business activity can coexist.
1.
Is it appropriate that children’s stories contain anti-business messages? What are the ethical implications of this practice?
2.
Today, who performs the role of the lorax?
3.
How would Dr. Seuss view sustainable development?
4. What other mediums contain messages that are critical of business?
5. Will you read The Lorax to children (including your own)?