Scratch & Win How to sue the government, and win from NPR's Throughline
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Apr 9, 2025 
Rund Abdelfatah and Ramtin Arablouei, co-hosts of NPR’s Throughline, dive into the impactful legacy of consumer advocate Ralph Nader. They explore his role in challenging the auto industry and advocating for safety regulations, spotlighting the powerful grassroots movement, Nader's Raiders. Additionally, they discuss the evolving perceptions of government and the significance of public engagement in consumer advocacy, reflecting on how the cultural shifts of the 60s and 70s resonate today. Expect insights on rallying for democracy and accountability!
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Nader's Early Concerns
- Ralph Nader noticed the high number of car crash fatalities and questioned the prevailing narrative of user error.
- He investigated car crashes and found that car manufacturers knew about safety issues but often avoided implementing safety features.
Auto Industry's Knowledge of Safety Issues
- Nader's research, including studies from Cornell, revealed that the auto industry knew about car safety issues.
- Car makers avoided adding safety features like seatbelts and padded dashboards to save costs.
Nader's View of the Consumer Citizen
- Nader viewed the consumer citizen as an active participant in investigating and engaging in political processes.
- He championed the idea of an informed citizen advocating for their own interests.
