JRE #1500 – Barbara Freese

1-Jul-20

This podcast explores Barbara Freese’s book “Industrial-Strength Denial,” dissecting the historical patterns of corporate denialism across various industries. Provocative topics include the influence of corporations on government and public perception, the psychology of denial, and the potential for catastrophic consequences. Underlying themes examine the intricate relationship between profit, power, and the manipulation of scientific evidence.

1. Corporate Denialism as a Systemic Issue:

• Freese argues that corporate denialism is a common and deeply rooted pattern, driven by the desire to protect profits and maintain power.
• She contends that corporations often engage in denial to deflect responsibility for harm caused by their products or activities.
• The podcast highlights how corporations have historically manipulated scientific evidence, distorted public perception, and influenced government regulations to further their interests.
• Freese emphasizes the inherent conflict between corporate profit-seeking and the well-being of the environment and society.

2. The Psychology of Denial:

• The podcast delves into the psychological mechanisms behind corporate denialism, exploring the interplay of individual biases and corporate incentives.
• Freese suggests that individuals working within corporations often engage in self-deception, rationalizing their actions and minimizing the potential harm.
• The podcast explores the concept of “diffusion of responsibility,” where individuals within a corporation can more easily distance themselves from harmful actions.
• Freese highlights the role of tribal instincts and ideological justifications in reinforcing denial, creating a sense of “us vs. them” and reinforcing groupthink.

3. The Historical Roots of Corporate Denialism:

• The podcast traces corporate denialism back to the British slave trade in the 18th century, demonstrating the long history of this phenomenon.
• Freese provides a detailed account of how slave traders constructed a narrative of “rescue,” portraying slavery as a benevolent act that benefitted enslaved Africans.
• She highlights the role of lobbying groups and political influence in shaping public perception and suppressing dissent.
• The podcast explores how early corporations, like the British East India Company, used their power to manipulate governments and exploit resources.

4. The Role of the Corporation:

• Freese examines the evolution of the corporate structure, highlighting the shift from limited liability corporations to powerful entities with significant political influence.
• The podcast delves into the history of limited liability and its role in encouraging risk-taking behavior.
• It explores the interplay of corporate power, market forces, and government regulations, illustrating the inherent tension between individual responsibility and corporate interests.
• Freese argues that corporations have gained an inordinate amount of power over governments and public discourse, raising concerns about democratic accountability and the potential for abuse.

5. The Radium Industry: A Case Study in Denial:

• The podcast examines the Radium industry in the early 20th century, highlighting the dangers of this radioactive element and the subsequent cover-up by corporations.
• Freese details how Radium was marketed as a miracle cure for various ailments, despite scientific evidence of its toxicity.
• The podcast reveals the exploitation of workers, particularly women, who were exposed to high levels of radiation while painting watch dials.
• The Radium industry serves as a cautionary tale, demonstrating the consequences of prioritizing profit over safety and the ability of corporations to manipulate public perception.

6. The Fossil Fuel Industry and Climate Change Denial:

• The podcast explores the fossil fuel industry’s long history of climate change denial, outlining the strategies used to undermine scientific consensus.
• Freese examines the industry’s funding of think tanks and advocacy groups to spread misinformation and sow doubt about climate science.
• She highlights the industry’s efforts to influence politicians and government regulations to prioritize fossil fuel production.
• The podcast discusses the challenges of transitioning away from fossil fuels and the need for bold action to address climate change.

7. The Financial Crisis of 2008 and Wall Street Denialism:

• The podcast investigates the financial crisis of 2008, uncovering how Wall Street institutions engaged in denial and risky practices that ultimately destabilized the global economy.
• Freese explores the creation of complex financial instruments, like subprime mortgages and collateralized debt obligations, which were designed to generate profit but contained significant risks.
• She highlights the manipulation of ratings agencies to inflate the value of these instruments and the subsequent collapse of the housing market.
• The podcast explores the culture of greed and short-term profit-seeking that permeated Wall Street, highlighting the disconnect between individual responsibility and systemic risks.

8. The Influence of Social Media:

• The podcast examines the impact of social media on corporate denialism, highlighting the potential for manipulation and the spread of misinformation.
• Freese discusses the role of algorithms in promoting divisive content and reinforcing existing biases.
• The podcast explores the challenge of combating online misinformation and the need for greater transparency and regulation of social media platforms.
• She raises concerns about the power of social media companies to influence elections and public discourse, emphasizing the need for democratic safeguards and ethical considerations.

9. The Need for Action:

• The podcast concludes with a call to action, urging listeners to engage in critical thinking, hold corporations accountable, and demand systemic change.
• Freese emphasizes the urgency of addressing climate change and the need for a collective effort to transition to a more sustainable future.
• She highlights the role of government regulation in mitigating the negative impacts of corporate behavior and promoting a more equitable and sustainable society.
• The podcast underscores the importance of informed citizenry, civic engagement, and a commitment to truth and justice in combating corporate denialism.

5 Memorable Quotes:

• “They told you that it would be just a little and that you would like it.” – Freese describes the dismissive approach of the coal industry to climate change, highlighting their attempt to minimize the risks.
• “It wasn’t even like we’re trying to do the right thing for our clients or we think we’re trying to do the right thing for society. It was just this full-on, take the money and run, and exploitation.” – Freese captures the callous attitude of Wall Street during the financial crisis, highlighting the lack of ethical consideration.
• “This is a creation of law, and so we get to determine how much power it has.” – Freese underscores the role of government in regulating corporate power, emphasizing the need for accountability.
• “We hardly ever imagine how we will solve those problems. We hardly ever…It’s all deeply dystopian.” – Freese reflects on the lack of imagination in addressing future challenges, highlighting the tendency towards pessimistic narratives.
• “It’s a perfect recipe for to just storm and confuses side.” – Freese expresses concerns about the impact of social media on children’s development and the potential for social isolation and manipulation.