Behind the Bastards Let's Talk About Thalidomide
Aug 31, 2021
Francesca Fiorentini, a sharp commentator and creator, joins the discussion on the dark legacy of thalidomide, a drug that caused severe birth defects. They delve into the shocking connections between the pharmaceutical industry and Nazi war criminals, revealing how ethics were often disregarded for profit. The conversation also highlights the heroic efforts of one FDA doctor who fought against its approval. With a mix of humor and gravity, they explore the ongoing repercussions of medical negligence and corporate deceit.
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Mengele's Experiments
- Dr. Mengele, infamous Nazi doctor at Auschwitz, conducted gruesome experiments on twins.
- He injected dye into their eyes, amputated limbs, and injected chloroform into their hearts.
Doctors' Role in the Holocaust
- Numerous doctors were essential for the Nazi death machinery, including administering Zyklon B.
- IG Farben, a pharmaceutical giant (now Bayer), played a significant role, involving doctors like Otto Ambrose.
IG Farben at Auschwitz
- Otto Ambrose oversaw IG Farben's Auschwitz factory, using slave labor from the SS.
- IG Farben employees even bought clothes stolen from gassed victims.