Ever heard of
Thalidomide? It is a drug that allows pregnant women to cope with their morning
sicknesses every morning. A drug distributor called Distillers had introduced
the product to the public. It was manufactured by Grunenthal and they claimed
no side effects to the user and their haul.
However, in a
few years, over 10,000 children were born with defects and deformities. Studies
showed that it was the effects of Thalidomide on the children. Eight British
individuals are currently pushing their cases against Grunenthal, and
Distillers, which Diageo Scotland owns.
With a few
manipulations here and there, this collective case may go nowhere except the
provision of compensation. But as far as public shaming will go, companies will
remain companies. Grunenthal still manufactures Thalidomide because it helps
treat other diseases such as leprosy and myeloma, and the public will still
need it.
Most
probably, the eight British individuals will only receive monetary compensation.
But then
again, when you look at it, this is how corporations and capitalism work. With
money having a high qualitative value for people, a few deformed children from
a discreet human experiment will be alright. Allow a legal challenge to shame
the organisation, but then, the public, and the government, still need them. Money
will always win, and the public can look past the company’s reputation, and the
cycle begins again.
