Apple News In Conversation

The dark side of Johnson & Johnson

6 snips
Apr 3, 2025
Gardiner Harris, an investigative journalist and author of 'No More Tears,' exposes the troubling history of Johnson & Johnson. He reveals the dark realities behind their baby powder scandal, including contamination with asbestos. Harris discusses the company's role in the opioid epidemic and highlights systemic failures in healthcare oversight. He calls for ethical reforms to hold corporations accountable, emphasizing the need for transparency to protect public health. A riveting exploration of corporate malfeasance and its real-world consequences.
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ANECDOTE

Baby Powder Scandal

  • J&J's talc-based baby powder, once iconic, was contaminated with asbestos, causing cancer.
  • Despite internal knowledge, J&J concealed evidence, leading to lawsuits and eventual discontinuation.
INSIGHT

J&J's Opioid Role

  • J&J played a significant role in the opioid crisis, supplying ingredients and marketing fentanyl patches as non-addictive.
  • Their involvement surpasses Purdue Pharma's in opioid-related deaths, highlighting their PR success.
ANECDOTE

COVID Vaccine Failure

  • J&J's COVID-19 vaccine, intended as redemption, faced contamination and safety issues.
  • The FDA revoked authorization due to blood clots and neurological concerns, hindering J&J's comeback.
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