

#7691
Mentioned in 4 episodes
The American way of death
Book • 1901
Jessica Mitford's 'The American Way of Death' is a groundbreaking work of investigative journalism that exposed the exploitative practices prevalent in the American funeral industry during the 1960s.
Mitford meticulously documented the industry's manipulative sales tactics, exorbitant pricing, and deceptive marketing strategies that preyed on grieving families.
Her unflinching critique sparked public outrage and led to significant reforms in funeral regulations.
The book's impact extended beyond the funeral industry, highlighting the vulnerability of consumers during times of grief and the need for greater transparency and ethical practices in all businesses.
Mitford's work remains a powerful example of investigative journalism's ability to effect social change.
Mitford meticulously documented the industry's manipulative sales tactics, exorbitant pricing, and deceptive marketing strategies that preyed on grieving families.
Her unflinching critique sparked public outrage and led to significant reforms in funeral regulations.
The book's impact extended beyond the funeral industry, highlighting the vulnerability of consumers during times of grief and the need for greater transparency and ethical practices in all businesses.
Mitford's work remains a powerful example of investigative journalism's ability to effect social change.
Mentioned by












Mentioned in 4 episodes
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

as a book furthering his mission to demystify US foreign and defense policies.

Eugene Jarecki

27 snips
Eugene Jarecki
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

, who explains that this book contributed to the increasing popularity of cremation.

Caitlin Doughty

17 snips
The New Science of Love & The Fascinating World of Death
Mentioned as Decker's massively popular book that exposed exploitative funeral practices.

11 snips
The Mitford sisters | 2 : life of the week
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

as a book that influenced her views on embalming.

Hayley Campbell

Checking Out: The Industry That Takes Care Of The Dead
Mentioned by 

as a 1963 expose of the funeral industry.


Maria Konnikova

450. How to Be Better at Death
Mentioned by 

as the best-known book by 

, exposing the funeral industry.


David Bianculli


Jessica Mitford

Remembering Lyricist Alan Bergman / The 'Outrageous' Jessica Mitford
Mentioned by the podcast hosts as a book that brought attention to unethical practices in the funeral industry in the 1960s.

The Deal to Hide Bad Actors in the Funeral Industry
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

as a wonderful book written by Jessica Mitford, who lived in California.

Andrew Keen

The Death of the American Way of Work: How the United States Lost Its Grip on the Future
Mentioned by 

as a book that exposed the U.S. funeral home industry.


Chuck Bryan

Short Stuff: Modern Funerals
Mentioned by Maggie Jones as a best-selling investigation into the funeral industry.

The Sunday Read: 'The Movement to Bring Death Closer'