Question: Does a company's leadership have a responsibility to continue to build product sales and profits (and shareholder value) while seeking conclusive research results whether or not a product is indeed harmful? Cite specific examples of companies that have been identified as putting their financial needs ahead of the consumers well being.
Industries often mentioned include the tobacco and pharmaceutical industries. It is widely known that smoking is harmful to your health, yet cigarette companies continue to promote and consumers continue to buy. To get new customers, cigarette companies have introduced small flavored cigars, which have fewer restrictions than cigarettes. Of special interest also is the notion that Camel focuses its advertising on teenagers (think Joe Camel).
Pharmaceutical companies also have come under fire for advertising directly to consumers, urging them to ask their doctor for the drug being promoted. The drug companies also have been accused of catering to the docs at "user conferences" held at "high-end" golf resorts.
What other examples can you recognize in the marketplace? BE SURE your discussion includes references to the appropriate marketing principles.