Consumerism, the Eternal Triangle: Business, Government and Consumers

Abstract

This book of readings is organized around the eternal triangle of business, government, and consumers. It attempts to provide an objective analysis of consumerism by examining the interrelationships among these three groups. The book contains 48 selections from widely varying viewpoints, organized into eleven sections. Each section includes introductory comments which provide a framework and aid coherence. Generally, the first article in each section is from The Wall Street Journal, which implies an emphasis on practical examples of the issues. Each section is not meant to stand alone, but is designed to be input for following sections. The rationale for using eleven subdivisions is not completely clear upon first examination. There seems to be little to distinguish, for example, the articles included in Part 7, Business and Consumerism, from those in Part 8, Marketing and Consumerism. One might also expect that specific consumer problem areas would be treated in sequence, but this is not the case. Upon closer examination and in view of the book's title, it appears that Professor Murray attempts to fit the eleven sections into four main areas: introduction, government, business, and consumers. Sections 1 and 2 are intended to provide introductory background information. The important concept of consumer sovereignty is examined, and the phenomenon of consumerism is explained. Sections 3 through 6 all seem to fit under the government portion of the triangle. The articles included consider some of the consumer protection activities of both the federal and state governments, especially in the areas of credit and packaging. The role and effectiveness of the FTC as the primary consumer protection agency is examined. Professor Murray also prepared a useful summary of major federal consumer legislation especially for this volume. Parts 7 through 10 can all be grouped under the business area. The relationship of business and, more specifically, marketing and advertising, to consumerism is discussed. The warranty problems facing business and the matter of increasing product liability are also examined.