I think the Rev. Jackson performs a very useful function. The "contributions" to his charitable foundation are public record and provide a good guide to the quality of corporate management. If you want to invest in a company run by cowardly weasels, then go for a big contributor. Today's Washington Times lists the following:
AT &T $300,000 (!)
Ameritech 15,000
Apple 10,000
Bank One 65,000
Bank of America 15,000
Black Entertainment Television 100,000
Burger King 100,000
Citigroup Foundation 250,000
Coca-Cola 50,000
Delta Air Lines 15,000
General Motors 50,000
Lockheed Martin 15,000
MetLife 150,000
NASCAR (???) 150,000
Sprint 50,000
Texaco 10,000
UPS Foundation 75,000
There are others such as unions and law firms. Also, the above are only money paid to his charitable arm. He has other operations that generate funds as well. I believe for example that American Expres is a big contributor. No doubt some exec's rationalize it as cheaper than lawsuits and bad publicity. The problem is that bullies like Jackson thrive on two things, legitimacy and success. These big companies give him both and make it harder for others to stand up to his coercion.
All in all, short selling the above list would have been a good strategy. Indeed, the stupidity and venality of management seems somewaht proportional to the money paid.