The "McLibel" Trial

I'm sure by now you have heard of the McLibel trial. It took place in the UK when McDonald's sued two Britons over a leaflet that negatively portrayed some of their corporate practices. McDonald's subsequently sued under libel laws in the U.K. I've watched the documentary film in the past and thought it was an amazing story of how individuals can make a difference. The real kicker in the case is that the judge found that some of the points made were not libelous. You can read the verdict.

It's a great story because of how they were able to turn the tables on McDonald's in some ways. It also demonstrated how far some companies will go to quash any contrary opinion and once the PR machine backfires how quickly they run. I also like the fact that it is a case involving a fast food chain. Fast food is not the healthiest choice you can make to eat. There is no news here. Just read Fast Food Nation or watch Supersize Me and you'll know all you want about the food. Take some time and read through the links for details about the McLibel case. It may inspire you to take on a corporate giant. At least you should remember that every individual can make a difference.