I would not sign the Earth Charter. While I do believe it has many wonderful ideas and perspectives, it verges on the border of socialism. This is evident in such statements as, " a. Promote the equitable distribution of wealth within nations and among nations. b. Enhance the intellectual, financial, technical, and social resources of developing nations, and relieve them of onerous international debt." Such action as these are what America is already doing and is partially the reason the global economy is in the state it is. The document is also too ambiguous. It states goals with no means of obtaining them because they are impossible to obtain. While I believe protecting the environment is important I do not believe this charter would be the best course of action. Some of the items are contradictory as well. The charter wants to protect the rights and practices of indigenous peoples however, it also wishes to protect animals form forms of hunting that cause "prolonged suffering." In some communities such as the Eskimos in Alaska, they still use primitive forms of hunting that is tradition in their tribe . While these forms of hunting may be tradition they are not as effective as newer technology which would not cause the animals as much suffering. Overall I think this charter has some decent items in it however, in its current state i would not sign it as it is contradictory and opposes some of my personal beliefs.
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