Lesson 2-6: Our Government Regulates Marketing
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Notes Worksheet |
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LESSON SUMMARY
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, investigative journalists known as muckrakers exposed unethical business practices, including false advertising and unsafe products. Writers like Upton Sinclair and Samuel Hopkins Adams played a critical role in revealing the dangers of unregulated industries. Sinclair’s The Jungle exposed unsanitary conditions in the meatpacking industry, leading to the Meat Inspection Act of 1906, while Adams’ The Great American Fraud uncovered misleading medical claims, influencing the Pure Food and Drug Act. These reports led to increased government intervention, as Progressive Era reforms aimed to protect consumers from corporate deception. President Theodore Roosevelt championed regulations that improved public health and safety, setting the foundation for modern consumer protection laws.
Today, strict regulations enforced by agencies like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ensure businesses cannot mislead consumers with false claims. The rise of truth-in-advertising laws, digital transparency, and consumer advocacy makes it difficult for companies to engage in deceptive marketing without facing legal consequences. Social media and online reviews also hold businesses accountable, as misleading claims are quickly exposed and challenged by the public. These protections ensure that modern marketing remains ethical and transparent, reinforcing the lasting impact of early consumer protection efforts.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, investigative journalists known as muckrakers exposed unethical business practices, including false advertising and unsafe products. Writers like Upton Sinclair and Samuel Hopkins Adams played a critical role in revealing the dangers of unregulated industries. Sinclair’s The Jungle exposed unsanitary conditions in the meatpacking industry, leading to the Meat Inspection Act of 1906, while Adams’ The Great American Fraud uncovered misleading medical claims, influencing the Pure Food and Drug Act. These reports led to increased government intervention, as Progressive Era reforms aimed to protect consumers from corporate deception. President Theodore Roosevelt championed regulations that improved public health and safety, setting the foundation for modern consumer protection laws.
Today, strict regulations enforced by agencies like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ensure businesses cannot mislead consumers with false claims. The rise of truth-in-advertising laws, digital transparency, and consumer advocacy makes it difficult for companies to engage in deceptive marketing without facing legal consequences. Social media and online reviews also hold businesses accountable, as misleading claims are quickly exposed and challenged by the public. These protections ensure that modern marketing remains ethical and transparent, reinforcing the lasting impact of early consumer protection efforts.
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Do Now: Should it be the government's role to prevent fake and dangerous products from being sold?
Yes, the original formula of Coca-Cola, created in 1886 by pharmacist John Stith Pemberton, contained a small amount of cocaine derived from coca leaves. At the time, cocaine was a common ingredient in medicinal products and was believed to have health benefits, such as relieving headaches and boosting energy. The drink also contained caffeine from kola nuts, giving it its name. Coca-Cola was marketed as a tonic for various ailments, and the inclusion of coca leaf extract was not considered controversial, as cocaine was legal and widely used in medicinal and over-the-counter products during the late 19th century.
However, as concerns over the addictive and harmful effects of cocaine grew, public perception shifted, leading to government regulation. By 1904, Coca-Cola began using “spent” coca leaves, which had most of the cocaine removed. In 1929, due to increasing regulations and the passage of the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906, the company completely eliminated any trace of cocaine from its formula. Today, Coca-Cola still uses coca leaf extract, but it is processed by a specialized facility to remove all active cocaine, ensuring compliance with modern drug laws.
However, as concerns over the addictive and harmful effects of cocaine grew, public perception shifted, leading to government regulation. By 1904, Coca-Cola began using “spent” coca leaves, which had most of the cocaine removed. In 1929, due to increasing regulations and the passage of the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906, the company completely eliminated any trace of cocaine from its formula. Today, Coca-Cola still uses coca leaf extract, but it is processed by a specialized facility to remove all active cocaine, ensuring compliance with modern drug laws.
Checklist Of What You Need To Do Today To Get 100%
DO NOW:
1.) Participate in Do Now. (Actively participate, you are facing the discussion, not turned away from the discussion, phones are always away at all times in class)
Independent Practice:
2.) Read or listen to the article
3.) Complete Quizzes:
Lesson 2-6 Quiz A (On Schoology)
4.) Complete Higher Level Question
1.) Participate in Do Now. (Actively participate, you are facing the discussion, not turned away from the discussion, phones are always away at all times in class)
Independent Practice:
2.) Read or listen to the article
3.) Complete Quizzes:
Lesson 2-6 Quiz A (On Schoology)
4.) Complete Higher Level Question
Government Regulation Of Marketing Started To Happen After "The Muckrakers" Uncovered Societal Woes
The Muckrakers were investigative journalists during the late 19th and early 20th centuries who exposed corruption, social injustices, and corporate malpractice in the United States. The term "muckraker" was coined by President Theodore Roosevelt, who compared them to a character in Pilgrim’s Progress who constantly raked up filth. However, despite his initial criticism, Roosevelt and other reformers recognized the importance of their work in driving societal change. Muckrakers published articles, books, and reports that uncovered unethical practices in industries such as food production, pharmaceuticals, and labor conditions. As you can see in the chart below, the number of newspapers in America peaked between 1900 and 1930.
Some of the most famous muckrakers included Upton Sinclair, who exposed the horrifying conditions of the meatpacking industry in his book The Jungle; Ida Tarbell, who investigated the monopolistic business practices of Standard Oil; and Lincoln Steffens, who wrote The Shame of the Cities, highlighting political corruption in urban areas. Their work played a crucial role in informing the public and pressuring lawmakers to implement reforms to protect consumers and workers.
THE MUCKRAKERS
The "Progressive Era" Aimed To Fix The Problems That The Muckrakers Wrote About
The Progressive Era (1890s–1920s) emerged as a response to the rapid industrialization, urbanization, and political corruption that characterized the late 19th century. The Gilded Age (1870s–1900) had seen an explosion of wealth, but it was concentrated in the hands of a few, leading to vast economic inequality. At the same time, industrialization resulted in dangerous working conditions, child labor, and unsanitary living environments in major cities. Political machines and monopolistic corporations exerted significant influence over government policies, leaving ordinary citizens vulnerable to exploitation.
Progressives, who were a diverse group of reformers, believed that government intervention was necessary to address these social and economic issues. They sought to regulate big business, improve public health, expand democracy (e.g., women’s suffrage and direct election of senators), and promote social justice. Many of these reforms were influenced by the growing influence of muckraking journalism, which shed light on abuses that demanded action.
When American politicians tuned in that society wanted change, the first Progressive candidate, a democrat named Theodore Roosevelt was elected president.
Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt was the ultimate Progressive president because he championed government intervention to regulate big business, protect consumers, and conserve natural resources. He aggressively enforced the Sherman Antitrust Act, breaking up monopolies and trusts to promote fair competition, and pushed for the Pure Food and Drug Act and Meat Inspection Act to safeguard public health. Additionally, he expanded the national parks system, preserved millions of acres of land, and promoted environmental conservation, embodying the Progressive Era’s ideals of reform and social justice.
Progressives, who were a diverse group of reformers, believed that government intervention was necessary to address these social and economic issues. They sought to regulate big business, improve public health, expand democracy (e.g., women’s suffrage and direct election of senators), and promote social justice. Many of these reforms were influenced by the growing influence of muckraking journalism, which shed light on abuses that demanded action.
When American politicians tuned in that society wanted change, the first Progressive candidate, a democrat named Theodore Roosevelt was elected president.
Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt was the ultimate Progressive president because he championed government intervention to regulate big business, protect consumers, and conserve natural resources. He aggressively enforced the Sherman Antitrust Act, breaking up monopolies and trusts to promote fair competition, and pushed for the Pure Food and Drug Act and Meat Inspection Act to safeguard public health. Additionally, he expanded the national parks system, preserved millions of acres of land, and promoted environmental conservation, embodying the Progressive Era’s ideals of reform and social justice.
There Were A Lot Of Fake Products In The Late 1800's / Early 1900's And Samuel Hopkins Adams Exposed Them In His Writing
The writings of Samuel Hopkins Adams and Upton Sinclair played a crucial role in exposing the dangers of unregulated industries, leading to significant government regulations and limits on how products could be marketed. Before their investigations, companies had the freedom to make false claims about medicines and food products, often selling unsafe and mislabeled goods to unsuspecting consumers. Their work sparked widespread public outrage and pressured the government to act in the interest of consumer protection.
Samuel Hopkins Adams, in his 1905 series The Great American Fraud, exposed the patent medicine industry, revealing how many so-called "cures" contained dangerous substances such as alcohol, opium, and cocaine without proper labeling. He documented how companies made false health claims, deceiving the public into believing that ineffective or harmful products could treat serious illnesses. His work directly influenced the passage of the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906, which required manufacturers to list ingredients on product labels and prohibited misleading advertising of drugs.
At the same time, Upton Sinclair’s 1906 novel The Jungle exposed the horrific conditions of the meatpacking industry, where contaminated, spoiled, and chemically treated meat was routinely sold to the public. Although Sinclair intended to highlight the exploitation of workers, the public was more alarmed by the disgusting food safety violations he uncovered. His revelations led to immediate public outcry, prompting President Theodore Roosevelt to push for federal regulation of the industry.
As a result, the Meat Inspection Act of 1906 and the Pure Food and Drug Act were passed to ensure that food and drugs were produced under safer conditions and accurately labeled. These laws set the foundation for modern consumer protection regulations, ultimately leading to the creation of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Companies could no longer make unverified health claims or sell tainted food products without oversight, fundamentally changing how businesses marketed their goods.
The impact of Adams and Sinclair’s work extended beyond their time, influencing future regulations on advertising, product safety, and labeling laws. Their investigative journalism demonstrated the power of the press to drive government action and protect the public from corporate deception, shaping the modern landscape of consumer rights and responsible marketing practices. Below are some of the fake products exposed by Samuel Hopkins Adams.
Samuel Hopkins Adams, in his 1905 series The Great American Fraud, exposed the patent medicine industry, revealing how many so-called "cures" contained dangerous substances such as alcohol, opium, and cocaine without proper labeling. He documented how companies made false health claims, deceiving the public into believing that ineffective or harmful products could treat serious illnesses. His work directly influenced the passage of the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906, which required manufacturers to list ingredients on product labels and prohibited misleading advertising of drugs.
At the same time, Upton Sinclair’s 1906 novel The Jungle exposed the horrific conditions of the meatpacking industry, where contaminated, spoiled, and chemically treated meat was routinely sold to the public. Although Sinclair intended to highlight the exploitation of workers, the public was more alarmed by the disgusting food safety violations he uncovered. His revelations led to immediate public outcry, prompting President Theodore Roosevelt to push for federal regulation of the industry.
As a result, the Meat Inspection Act of 1906 and the Pure Food and Drug Act were passed to ensure that food and drugs were produced under safer conditions and accurately labeled. These laws set the foundation for modern consumer protection regulations, ultimately leading to the creation of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Companies could no longer make unverified health claims or sell tainted food products without oversight, fundamentally changing how businesses marketed their goods.
The impact of Adams and Sinclair’s work extended beyond their time, influencing future regulations on advertising, product safety, and labeling laws. Their investigative journalism demonstrated the power of the press to drive government action and protect the public from corporate deception, shaping the modern landscape of consumer rights and responsible marketing practices. Below are some of the fake products exposed by Samuel Hopkins Adams.
Fake Products From The Past:
These products had wild claims that were untruthful and in many cases harmful to people. Click on the images below. You will not believe what Lysol was originally used for!!!!
Beginning In The Late 19th Century / Early 20th Century, The United States Government Decided That It Was A Good Idea To Protect The Consumer
Here is a list from our textbook of some of the efforts made by our government to protect the consumer
Why is it impossible to make fake claims about a product that you are bringing to market at the present?
In the present day, it is impossible—or at least highly risky—to make fake claims about a product due to stringent government regulations, consumer protection laws, and the power of digital transparency. Unlike in the past, when businesses could freely advertise false or misleading claims, today’s regulatory environment holds companies accountable for the accuracy of their marketing. Agencies such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) enforce strict rules on advertising, labeling, and product safety.
One of the most significant barriers to false advertising is truth-in-advertising laws, primarily enforced by the FTC. The FTC mandates that all marketing claims must be truthful, not misleading, and supported by scientific evidence. If a company falsely claims that its product can cure a disease or provide certain benefits, it must have documented proof to back up its statements. Violating these laws can result in heavy fines, product recalls, and even lawsuits.
The FDA also plays a crucial role in regulating marketing, especially for food, drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices. Companies must go through rigorous testing and approval processes before making any claims about the safety or effectiveness of their products. For example, pharmaceutical companies cannot advertise a drug’s benefits without proving its effectiveness through clinical trials. Any false claims can lead to product bans, fines, and legal action against the company.
Another factor that makes false claims nearly impossible is the rise of digital transparency and consumer advocacy. With online reviews, social media, and watchdog organizations, consumers can quickly call out and expose misleading claims. If a product does not perform as advertised, buyers will share their experiences online, damaging the company’s reputation and reducing consumer trust. Websites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Trustpilot, and the FDA’s recall database allow consumers to verify product claims and report deceptive marketing.
Moreover, competitors and industry watchdogs closely monitor advertising and product claims. If a company makes exaggerated or false claims, rival businesses can report them to regulators, leading to investigations and legal consequences. Industry self-regulation also plays a role, as many businesses voluntarily follow advertising standards to maintain credibility and avoid legal trouble.
Legal consequences for false advertising are severe, discouraging companies from engaging in deceptive marketing. In recent years, companies have faced multi-million dollar lawsuits for misleading consumers. For instance, false health claims about weight-loss supplements or skincare products have resulted in class-action lawsuits and government crackdowns. These legal risks make it highly dangerous for any company to attempt to deceive consumers.
Ultimately, strict regulations, consumer awareness, and legal enforcement ensure that companies cannot make fake claims about their products in today’s market. Businesses that attempt to do so face financial penalties, reputational damage, and potential legal action. As a result, modern advertising is more transparent, and companies must provide verifiable proof for any claims they make about their products.
One of the most significant barriers to false advertising is truth-in-advertising laws, primarily enforced by the FTC. The FTC mandates that all marketing claims must be truthful, not misleading, and supported by scientific evidence. If a company falsely claims that its product can cure a disease or provide certain benefits, it must have documented proof to back up its statements. Violating these laws can result in heavy fines, product recalls, and even lawsuits.
The FDA also plays a crucial role in regulating marketing, especially for food, drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices. Companies must go through rigorous testing and approval processes before making any claims about the safety or effectiveness of their products. For example, pharmaceutical companies cannot advertise a drug’s benefits without proving its effectiveness through clinical trials. Any false claims can lead to product bans, fines, and legal action against the company.
Another factor that makes false claims nearly impossible is the rise of digital transparency and consumer advocacy. With online reviews, social media, and watchdog organizations, consumers can quickly call out and expose misleading claims. If a product does not perform as advertised, buyers will share their experiences online, damaging the company’s reputation and reducing consumer trust. Websites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Trustpilot, and the FDA’s recall database allow consumers to verify product claims and report deceptive marketing.
Moreover, competitors and industry watchdogs closely monitor advertising and product claims. If a company makes exaggerated or false claims, rival businesses can report them to regulators, leading to investigations and legal consequences. Industry self-regulation also plays a role, as many businesses voluntarily follow advertising standards to maintain credibility and avoid legal trouble.
Legal consequences for false advertising are severe, discouraging companies from engaging in deceptive marketing. In recent years, companies have faced multi-million dollar lawsuits for misleading consumers. For instance, false health claims about weight-loss supplements or skincare products have resulted in class-action lawsuits and government crackdowns. These legal risks make it highly dangerous for any company to attempt to deceive consumers.
Ultimately, strict regulations, consumer awareness, and legal enforcement ensure that companies cannot make fake claims about their products in today’s market. Businesses that attempt to do so face financial penalties, reputational damage, and potential legal action. As a result, modern advertising is more transparent, and companies must provide verifiable proof for any claims they make about their products.
Higher Level Question:
Task: Describe and give examples of muckraking in the 21st century. Compare it to what you learned about the muckrakers (above). Explain to me who are the muckrakers of today? Are there more muckrakers today than there were in the past? Are the muckrakers of today able to create as much social change as the muckrakers of the early 20th century?
Please explain in a well written 3 paragraph essay. See the rubric below for guidance.
Video: The video below might help you form an argument. You have probably seen many videos similar to this.
Please explain in a well written 3 paragraph essay. See the rubric below for guidance.
Video: The video below might help you form an argument. You have probably seen many videos similar to this.