Theme: Commercialization Flashcards
(14 cards)
What are the two ways to climb a mountain according to Krakauer?
1) by oneself, with no one else’s help; 2) in a tour group, as part of a large commercial business.
What is the cost of the permit required by the Nepalese government for independent Everest climbers?
65,000 dollars.
What impact has commercialization had on the Sherpas’ homeland?
Commercialization has destroyed some of the Sherpas’ homeland by cutting down trees and clearing fields for lodges and hotels.
How has commercialization affected the relationship between wealthy clients and Sherpa employees?
It establishes an unequal relationship between wealthy, predominately Western business clients and less financially secure, predominately Sherpa employees.
How do climbers generally treat their Sherpa helpers according to Krakauer?
Climbers and tourists often treat their Sherpa helpers dismissively, as anonymous servants.
What positive impact has tourism businesses had on Sherpa households?
Tourism businesses have lowered the unemployment rate and increased the average wealth of Sherpa households.
What does Krakauer argue about the notion that Sherpa culture was superior before commercialization?
It would be condescending and paternalistic to claim that Sherpa culture was superior before it was ‘corrupted’ by big business.
What does Krakauer mean by the monetization of mountain climbing?
The system whereby only a select few have the funds to pay for an Everest climb.
Why is the monetization of mountaineering harmful according to Krakauer?
It creates the impression that money alone can ‘buy’ an Everest climb, rather than training or experience.
What was a notable issue with Krakauer’s teammates’ experience level during the 1996 Everest expedition?
Most had very little recent experience climbing mountains.
What did Krakauer note about clients’ behavior after paying for an Everest climb?
Clients often refuse to turn back early, even when conditions are too dangerous.
What disaster occurred on May 10, 1996, during Krakauer’s expedition?
Six of Krakauer’s peers died, partly due to their relative inexperience.
What time did Krakauer and his peers refuse to turn back from the summit on May 10?
They refused to turn back at or before 2 pm.
What does Krakauer strongly condemn about the commercialization of Everest tourism?
It created a serious disaster on the afternoon of May 10.
