Corporate Power, American Democracy, and the Automobile Industry

Luger shows how, time and again, the automobile industry has shirked responsibility for the negative impact of its products and held regulations at bay. For example, Luger explains how "blaming the drive" is a well-worn response of the auto industry. Recently, Bridgestone/Firestone tried to argue that its tires aren't faulty-SUV drives are at fault for improper tire inflation. Luger gives us the historical pattern for this position: from the late 1930s up until the early 1960s, the auto industry repeatedly argued that the cause of automobile accidents lay with the driver. It argued that increased driver education and responsibility would eliminate most accidents and pushed for programs and legislation that funded drivers' education and stiffened enforcement of traffic violations. Of course, Ralph Nader proved in the mid-1960s that the driver wasn't to blame, and that the car-unsafe at any speed-was. Which brings us to Luger's important point: social movements, such as Nader's consumer rights campaigns, are key to meeting capital's flagrant abuses head-on. Whether it's the labor movement or the environmental movement, organized response can challenge corporate power.

But don't just read this book for its hard-hitting analysis; it's also a witty narrative with juicy asides about the sleazier side of the automobile industry. You'll die laughing when you come across the story about the most expensive executive midnight snack in history (don't read it while driving!).


Thorough, Smart & Sassy   August 23, 2000
 4 out of 4 found this review helpful

Corporate Power, American Democracy and the Automobile Industry is a must read for anyone who wants to go deeper than "Who Framed Roger Rabbit" into the automania that is America. Thoroughly researched, politically savvy, and sharply critical of corporate control of our democracy, this book fits oh so well with all election year reading material. Makes you want to dump that SUV and jump on the bus!