James W. Cortada
- Published in print:
- 2004
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780195165883
- eISBN:
- 9780199789672
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195165883.003.0006
- Subject:
- Business and Management, Business History
This chapter describes how computers came into the petroleum, chemical, and pharmaceutical process and manufacturing industries. It argues that computers fundamentally changed the nature of work in ...
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This chapter describes how computers came into the petroleum, chemical, and pharmaceutical process and manufacturing industries. It argues that computers fundamentally changed the nature of work in all three, making each “high tech,” and discusses how this came about. It also describes the extent of deployment and recent trends in each in the use of information technology.Less
This chapter describes how computers came into the petroleum, chemical, and pharmaceutical process and manufacturing industries. It argues that computers fundamentally changed the nature of work in all three, making each “high tech,” and discusses how this came about. It also describes the extent of deployment and recent trends in each in the use of information technology.
David B. Sicilia
- Published in print:
- 2004
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199251902
- eISBN:
- 9780191719059
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199251902.003.0008
- Subject:
- Business and Management, Business History
This chapter examines the experiences of three US industries — chemical manufacturing, tobacco, and nuclear power — that came under political, legal, and rhetorical attack following World War II, and ...
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This chapter examines the experiences of three US industries — chemical manufacturing, tobacco, and nuclear power — that came under political, legal, and rhetorical attack following World War II, and identifies cross-cutting patterns in the public and private interests who besieged the industries, and in how they responded. At varying times and with few notable exceptions, the conflicts progressed through five stages: industry success and optimism following the war; sustained challenges by social movements; increasing regulatory control by a ‘new social’ regulatory regime in the early 1970s; new, specialized accommodationist public relations strategies and tactics; and involvement in large-scale tort regulation. Unlike most studies of alleged and real corporate malfeasance, this chapter considers both corporate and anti-corporate interests and actions, and suggests a framework for understanding post-World-War-II political economy more broadly.Less
This chapter examines the experiences of three US industries — chemical manufacturing, tobacco, and nuclear power — that came under political, legal, and rhetorical attack following World War II, and identifies cross-cutting patterns in the public and private interests who besieged the industries, and in how they responded. At varying times and with few notable exceptions, the conflicts progressed through five stages: industry success and optimism following the war; sustained challenges by social movements; increasing regulatory control by a ‘new social’ regulatory regime in the early 1970s; new, specialized accommodationist public relations strategies and tactics; and involvement in large-scale tort regulation. Unlike most studies of alleged and real corporate malfeasance, this chapter considers both corporate and anti-corporate interests and actions, and suggests a framework for understanding post-World-War-II political economy more broadly.
Edward A. Parson
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780195155495
- eISBN:
- 9780199833955
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195155491.003.0007
- Subject:
- Political Science, American Politics
Examines the major changes in technology that followed the adoption of the Montreal Protocol in 1987 and the completion of the period of initial formation of the ozone protection regime. Examines the ...
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Examines the major changes in technology that followed the adoption of the Montreal Protocol in 1987 and the completion of the period of initial formation of the ozone protection regime. Examines the reactions of major producers and users of chlorofluorohydrocarbons (CFCs) to the challenge posed by the negotiation and adoption of the Protocol. Discusses how major CFC producers in the chemical industry revived previously abandoned efforts to commercialize less ozone‐damaging chemical alternatives to CFCs. Also examines how CFC users, many of whom faced more serious risks from CFC restrictions than the producers, responded with intense efforts to reduce their dependence on all ozone‐depleting chemicals — efforts that reduced most CFC uses much faster than had seemed possible, and directed large shares of former CFC markets away from similar chemicals entirely.Less
Examines the major changes in technology that followed the adoption of the Montreal Protocol in 1987 and the completion of the period of initial formation of the ozone protection regime. Examines the reactions of major producers and users of chlorofluorohydrocarbons (CFCs) to the challenge posed by the negotiation and adoption of the Protocol. Discusses how major CFC producers in the chemical industry revived previously abandoned efforts to commercialize less ozone‐damaging chemical alternatives to CFCs. Also examines how CFC users, many of whom faced more serious risks from CFC restrictions than the producers, responded with intense efforts to reduce their dependence on all ozone‐depleting chemicals — efforts that reduced most CFC uses much faster than had seemed possible, and directed large shares of former CFC markets away from similar chemicals entirely.
Alan M. Rugman
- Published in print:
- 1999
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780198296058
- eISBN:
- 9780191596209
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0198296053.003.0007
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, International
Three themes are pursued in this case study on the impact of globalization on Canada. The first is that from a Canadian perspective, globalization means regionalization; by virtue of the FTA ...
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Three themes are pursued in this case study on the impact of globalization on Canada. The first is that from a Canadian perspective, globalization means regionalization; by virtue of the FTA (Canada–US Free Trade Agreement) and NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement), Canadian‐based firms have secure and reasonably predictable access to the world's largest market, with the rules‐based regime of the FTA and NAFTA being preferable to the former US‐dominated power‐based system, although many subtle political and managerial challenges remain, since market access is not perfectly secure. The second characteristic of Canadian strategic management is related to the first and is the need to develop skills in ‘national responsiveness’, due to the asymmetries in size of the US and Canadian economies. The third theme affecting Canadian competitiveness and analysis of globalization is the large amount of foreign ownership; this somewhat complicates the nature ofbusiness–government relations in Canada, since more than one‐third of the manufacturing sector is foreign‐owned, with over two‐thirds of this being US FDI (foreign direct investment) in Canada. The four main sections of the chapter are as follows: Foreign ownership and strategic management; Regional strategic management for Canadian firms; The flagship business network model; and Strategy in the Canadian chemical industry.Less
Three themes are pursued in this case study on the impact of globalization on Canada. The first is that from a Canadian perspective, globalization means regionalization; by virtue of the FTA (Canada–US Free Trade Agreement) and NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement), Canadian‐based firms have secure and reasonably predictable access to the world's largest market, with the rules‐based regime of the FTA and NAFTA being preferable to the former US‐dominated power‐based system, although many subtle political and managerial challenges remain, since market access is not perfectly secure. The second characteristic of Canadian strategic management is related to the first and is the need to develop skills in ‘national responsiveness’, due to the asymmetries in size of the US and Canadian economies. The third theme affecting Canadian competitiveness and analysis of globalization is the large amount of foreign ownership; this somewhat complicates the nature of
business–government relations in Canada, since more than one‐third of the manufacturing sector is foreign‐owned, with over two‐thirds of this being US FDI (foreign direct investment) in Canada. The four main sections of the chapter are as follows: Foreign ownership and strategic management; Regional strategic management for Canadian firms; The flagship business network model; and Strategy in the Canadian chemical industry.
Hugo Rüdiger, Michael Nasterlack, Andreas Zober, and Tee L. Guidotti
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- May 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780195380002
- eISBN:
- 9780199893881
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195380002.003.0019
- Subject:
- Public Health and Epidemiology, Public Health
Although there are hazards that may be characteristic to a particular industry or workplace, individual workers may be primarily exposed to hazards that are not common to the industry as a whole. For ...
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Although there are hazards that may be characteristic to a particular industry or workplace, individual workers may be primarily exposed to hazards that are not common to the industry as a whole. For example, welders in a mine or in a chemical industry are more often exposed to the hazards of welding, not those of mining and chemicals. Another is that in every industry, there are many jobs, such as boxing products and shipping, that have the same hazards. In occupational health that old hazards, even when they are controlled in one industry, never disappear for long: they reappear in new industries and new technologies, where professionals are unfamiliar with them and do not expect them. Among the industries discussed are biomedical research and biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, electronics, energy, heavy manufacturing, light manufacturing, metal fabrication, mining and smelting, paper and pulp manufacturing, plastics, rubber, steel, shipyards, transportation, and wood products.Less
Although there are hazards that may be characteristic to a particular industry or workplace, individual workers may be primarily exposed to hazards that are not common to the industry as a whole. For example, welders in a mine or in a chemical industry are more often exposed to the hazards of welding, not those of mining and chemicals. Another is that in every industry, there are many jobs, such as boxing products and shipping, that have the same hazards. In occupational health that old hazards, even when they are controlled in one industry, never disappear for long: they reappear in new industries and new technologies, where professionals are unfamiliar with them and do not expect them. Among the industries discussed are biomedical research and biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, electronics, energy, heavy manufacturing, light manufacturing, metal fabrication, mining and smelting, paper and pulp manufacturing, plastics, rubber, steel, shipyards, transportation, and wood products.
Alan M. Rugman and Joseph R. D’cruz
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- October 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780199258185
- eISBN:
- 9780191698521
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199258185.003.0009
- Subject:
- Business and Management, Strategy, International Business
In this section, the chemicals industry of Canada is described, with emphasis on its two sub-categories: multinational corporations (MNEs) and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Each type ...
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In this section, the chemicals industry of Canada is described, with emphasis on its two sub-categories: multinational corporations (MNEs) and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Each type encounters difficulties in entering the international sector of chemicals and in dealing with the challenges accompanying such involvement. These changes and adjustment processes will be facilitated by the employment of effective strategies caused by sound network ties that are distinct with each type. On the one hand, leaders of MNEs have to seek selling propositions compatible with their global consumers’ preferences and necessities. On the other hand, leaders of SMEs should maintain strong bond with significant leading MNE flagships in order to cope with increasing global economy requirements, competition, and challenges.Less
In this section, the chemicals industry of Canada is described, with emphasis on its two sub-categories: multinational corporations (MNEs) and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Each type encounters difficulties in entering the international sector of chemicals and in dealing with the challenges accompanying such involvement. These changes and adjustment processes will be facilitated by the employment of effective strategies caused by sound network ties that are distinct with each type. On the one hand, leaders of MNEs have to seek selling propositions compatible with their global consumers’ preferences and necessities. On the other hand, leaders of SMEs should maintain strong bond with significant leading MNE flagships in order to cope with increasing global economy requirements, competition, and challenges.
Ken Geiser
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- January 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780262012522
- eISBN:
- 9780262327015
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- The MIT Press
- DOI:
- 10.7551/mitpress/9780262012522.003.0008
- Subject:
- Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Many leading product manufacturers with brand name recognition maintain restricted substance lists and are working to assure that suppliers do not introduce those chemicals into their supply chains. ...
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Many leading product manufacturers with brand name recognition maintain restricted substance lists and are working to assure that suppliers do not introduce those chemicals into their supply chains. While the chemical industry has reduced the production of some hazardous chemicals, there are significant forces for change that are opening up opportunities for shifting towards safer chemicals, particularly chemicals derived from plants and biomass. Pressure from industrial standard setting organizations, non-governmental organizations and investors is growing but the mainstream chemical industry has been slow to shift its product mix to safer chemicals.Less
Many leading product manufacturers with brand name recognition maintain restricted substance lists and are working to assure that suppliers do not introduce those chemicals into their supply chains. While the chemical industry has reduced the production of some hazardous chemicals, there are significant forces for change that are opening up opportunities for shifting towards safer chemicals, particularly chemicals derived from plants and biomass. Pressure from industrial standard setting organizations, non-governmental organizations and investors is growing but the mainstream chemical industry has been slow to shift its product mix to safer chemicals.
Kathryn Steen
- Published in print:
- 2014
- Published Online:
- January 2015
- ISBN:
- 9781469612904
- eISBN:
- 9781469614458
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of North Carolina Press
- DOI:
- 10.5149/northcarolina/9781469612904.003.0009
- Subject:
- History, American History: 20th Century
This chapter examines the status of the synthetic organic chemicals industry in the United States during the period 1919–1930. It first looks at German firms before turning to the major players in ...
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This chapter examines the status of the synthetic organic chemicals industry in the United States during the period 1919–1930. It first looks at German firms before turning to the major players in the U.S. market in the 1920s. It then assesses the U.S. industry's relationship to the transatlantic political economy and how the manufacturers' strategic decisions influenced national identity. It also describes the industry's shift to commodity aliphatic chemicals, which coincided with other important developments such as the advent of new technologies on both sides of the Atlantic, the birth of petrochemicals, and the expansion of chemical engineering in the United States. Finally, the chapter discusses the emergence of petroleum and natural gas as the new source material for synthetic organic chemicals; the expansion of the industry's product offerings ranging from lubricants and solvents to antifreeze, lacquers, and plastics; and the role of automobiles in the “Americanization” of the industry.Less
This chapter examines the status of the synthetic organic chemicals industry in the United States during the period 1919–1930. It first looks at German firms before turning to the major players in the U.S. market in the 1920s. It then assesses the U.S. industry's relationship to the transatlantic political economy and how the manufacturers' strategic decisions influenced national identity. It also describes the industry's shift to commodity aliphatic chemicals, which coincided with other important developments such as the advent of new technologies on both sides of the Atlantic, the birth of petrochemicals, and the expansion of chemical engineering in the United States. Finally, the chapter discusses the emergence of petroleum and natural gas as the new source material for synthetic organic chemicals; the expansion of the industry's product offerings ranging from lubricants and solvents to antifreeze, lacquers, and plastics; and the role of automobiles in the “Americanization” of the industry.
Ken Geiser
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- January 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780262012522
- eISBN:
- 9780262327015
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- The MIT Press
- DOI:
- 10.7551/mitpress/9780262012522.003.0006
- Subject:
- Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
The global chemical industry makes up nearly 5 percent of worldwide gross domestic product with some $4.12 trillion in annual sales. The industry is highly integrated both vertically and horizontally ...
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The global chemical industry makes up nearly 5 percent of worldwide gross domestic product with some $4.12 trillion in annual sales. The industry is highly integrated both vertically and horizontally with long, international supply chains that increasingly are expanding in Asia and South America. The chemicals from the industry form the raw materials for thousands of product manufacturers who export products into the high consumption economies of Europe and North America and become the exported wastes that often end up in developing countries. This massive system makes up the global chemical economy that today stretches across every country in the world.Less
The global chemical industry makes up nearly 5 percent of worldwide gross domestic product with some $4.12 trillion in annual sales. The industry is highly integrated both vertically and horizontally with long, international supply chains that increasingly are expanding in Asia and South America. The chemicals from the industry form the raw materials for thousands of product manufacturers who export products into the high consumption economies of Europe and North America and become the exported wastes that often end up in developing countries. This massive system makes up the global chemical economy that today stretches across every country in the world.
Kathryn Steen
- Published in print:
- 2014
- Published Online:
- January 2015
- ISBN:
- 9781469612904
- eISBN:
- 9781469614458
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of North Carolina Press
- DOI:
- 10.5149/northcarolina/9781469612904.003.0007
- Subject:
- History, American History: 20th Century
This chapter describes the conditions of the synthetic organic chemicals industry in the United States after World War I, with particular emphasis on the years 1919–1922. More specifically, it ...
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This chapter describes the conditions of the synthetic organic chemicals industry in the United States after World War I, with particular emphasis on the years 1919–1922. More specifically, it examines the domestic industry's strategy to win the postwar economic contest over Germany. It also considers the creative public-private cooperation designed specifically to aid the industry, and how the continuing resentment toward Germany and German Americans benefited the manufacturers. Finally, the chapter discusses the industry's call for promotional policies in the name of national defense; the industry's mobilization of political support in the wake of the war; and the help provided by Congress and other government agencies to manufacturers.Less
This chapter describes the conditions of the synthetic organic chemicals industry in the United States after World War I, with particular emphasis on the years 1919–1922. More specifically, it examines the domestic industry's strategy to win the postwar economic contest over Germany. It also considers the creative public-private cooperation designed specifically to aid the industry, and how the continuing resentment toward Germany and German Americans benefited the manufacturers. Finally, the chapter discusses the industry's call for promotional policies in the name of national defense; the industry's mobilization of political support in the wake of the war; and the help provided by Congress and other government agencies to manufacturers.
Kathryn Steen
- Published in print:
- 2014
- Published Online:
- January 2015
- ISBN:
- 9781469612904
- eISBN:
- 9781469614458
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of North Carolina Press
- DOI:
- 10.5149/northcarolina/9781469612904.003.0008
- Subject:
- History, American History: 20th Century
This chapter examines how the political and economic fallout from World War I affected the synthetic organic chemicals industry in the United States during the period 1922–1930, especially with ...
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This chapter examines how the political and economic fallout from World War I affected the synthetic organic chemicals industry in the United States during the period 1922–1930, especially with respect to Germany and its chemical industry. It considers the role of the judiciary, the Department of Commerce, the U.S. Tariff Commission, and related customs agencies in shaping the industry's future in the 1920s. It also discusses the importance of the Synthetic Organic Chemicals Manufacturers' Association to the industry's cause. Finally, the chapter analyzes the 1923 case USA v. The Chemical Foundation, Inc. and the issues it had raised, including the formation of the Chemical Foundation and the sale of patents to it, along with German chemical patents and patenting strategies.Less
This chapter examines how the political and economic fallout from World War I affected the synthetic organic chemicals industry in the United States during the period 1922–1930, especially with respect to Germany and its chemical industry. It considers the role of the judiciary, the Department of Commerce, the U.S. Tariff Commission, and related customs agencies in shaping the industry's future in the 1920s. It also discusses the importance of the Synthetic Organic Chemicals Manufacturers' Association to the industry's cause. Finally, the chapter analyzes the 1923 case USA v. The Chemical Foundation, Inc. and the issues it had raised, including the formation of the Chemical Foundation and the sale of patents to it, along with German chemical patents and patenting strategies.
Charles H. Feinstein, Peter Temin, and Gianni Toniolo
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195307559
- eISBN:
- 9780199867929
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195307559.003.0010
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Economic History
The failure of aggregate demand in the 1930s meant that employment and output in industrial economies declined, but the capabilities of these economies did not disappear with jobs. Idle capital ...
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The failure of aggregate demand in the 1930s meant that employment and output in industrial economies declined, but the capabilities of these economies did not disappear with jobs. Idle capital reduced the need for net investment, but replacements still offered the opportunity for improvement, and new products and new methods continued to be introduced even in the worst of times. This chapter shows that the abundant capital flows from rich to poor countries of the 1920s vanished completely in the Great Depression. It goes on to record the progress of individual economies and industries in the various world regions in this more hostile economic environment, and to review the policies adopted to promote recovery in different contexts. It records the astonishing improvement in productivity that provides a positive counterpoint to the doleful economic condition that dominated contemporary discussions. It closes with the final attempt at international cooperation before the Second World War, the Tripartite Agreement of 1936.Less
The failure of aggregate demand in the 1930s meant that employment and output in industrial economies declined, but the capabilities of these economies did not disappear with jobs. Idle capital reduced the need for net investment, but replacements still offered the opportunity for improvement, and new products and new methods continued to be introduced even in the worst of times. This chapter shows that the abundant capital flows from rich to poor countries of the 1920s vanished completely in the Great Depression. It goes on to record the progress of individual economies and industries in the various world regions in this more hostile economic environment, and to review the policies adopted to promote recovery in different contexts. It records the astonishing improvement in productivity that provides a positive counterpoint to the doleful economic condition that dominated contemporary discussions. It closes with the final attempt at international cooperation before the Second World War, the Tripartite Agreement of 1936.
Kathryn Steen
- Published in print:
- 2014
- Published Online:
- January 2015
- ISBN:
- 9781469612904
- eISBN:
- 9781469614458
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of North Carolina Press
- DOI:
- 10.5149/northcarolina/9781469612904.003.0002
- Subject:
- History, American History: 20th Century
This chapter examines the economy of synthetic organic chemicals prior to World War I, first by sketching a typical journey of a synthetic dye and a synthetic pharmaceutical from Germany to the ...
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This chapter examines the economy of synthetic organic chemicals prior to World War I, first by sketching a typical journey of a synthetic dye and a synthetic pharmaceutical from Germany to the United States in 1914. It cites two products, indanthrene blue GCD made by BASF and Salvarsan developed by Paul Ehrlich, both of which were embraced by Americans upon their introductions to the world markets. It considers indanthrene blue GCD and Salvarsan within the context of the complex global networks underlying the synthetic organic chemicals industry of the late 1800s and early 1900s. Finally, it discusses the synthetic organic chemicals industry in Germany and the United States.Less
This chapter examines the economy of synthetic organic chemicals prior to World War I, first by sketching a typical journey of a synthetic dye and a synthetic pharmaceutical from Germany to the United States in 1914. It cites two products, indanthrene blue GCD made by BASF and Salvarsan developed by Paul Ehrlich, both of which were embraced by Americans upon their introductions to the world markets. It considers indanthrene blue GCD and Salvarsan within the context of the complex global networks underlying the synthetic organic chemicals industry of the late 1800s and early 1900s. Finally, it discusses the synthetic organic chemicals industry in Germany and the United States.
Kathryn Steen
- Published in print:
- 2014
- Published Online:
- January 2015
- ISBN:
- 9781469612904
- eISBN:
- 9781469614458
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of North Carolina Press
- DOI:
- 10.5149/northcarolina/9781469612904.003.0003
- Subject:
- History, American History: 20th Century
This chapter examines the introduction of Germany's synthetic organic chemicals, dyes, and pharmaceuticals, to the United States and their manufacturing between 1914 and 1918. It considers how ...
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This chapter examines the introduction of Germany's synthetic organic chemicals, dyes, and pharmaceuticals, to the United States and their manufacturing between 1914 and 1918. It considers how American entrepreneurs seized the opportunities born of World War I to wrest chemical markets from the German industry not only for economic aspects but also as a sense of patriotism. It also discusses the strategies adopted by American manufacturers in their attempt to acquire expertise and establish a domestic synthetic organic chemicals industry, including the formation of the trade associations; the characteristics of the new American industry; and the challenges faced by the nascent industry in the manufacture of synthetic organic chemicals. In addition, the chapter looks at the American importers and subsidiaries for German chemical companies. Finally, it describes three U.S. companies that aspired to create large, vertically integrated operations in dyes and related synthetic organic chemicals before the end of the war: Federal Dyestuff & Chemical Corporation, National Aniline & Chemical Company, and E. I. du Pont de Nemours & Company.Less
This chapter examines the introduction of Germany's synthetic organic chemicals, dyes, and pharmaceuticals, to the United States and their manufacturing between 1914 and 1918. It considers how American entrepreneurs seized the opportunities born of World War I to wrest chemical markets from the German industry not only for economic aspects but also as a sense of patriotism. It also discusses the strategies adopted by American manufacturers in their attempt to acquire expertise and establish a domestic synthetic organic chemicals industry, including the formation of the trade associations; the characteristics of the new American industry; and the challenges faced by the nascent industry in the manufacture of synthetic organic chemicals. In addition, the chapter looks at the American importers and subsidiaries for German chemical companies. Finally, it describes three U.S. companies that aspired to create large, vertically integrated operations in dyes and related synthetic organic chemicals before the end of the war: Federal Dyestuff & Chemical Corporation, National Aniline & Chemical Company, and E. I. du Pont de Nemours & Company.
Kathryn Steen
- Published in print:
- 2014
- Published Online:
- January 2015
- ISBN:
- 9781469612904
- eISBN:
- 9781469614458
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of North Carolina Press
- DOI:
- 10.5149/northcarolina/9781469612904.003.0005
- Subject:
- History, American History: 20th Century
This chapter examines the role played by chemists, many of which had trained in Germany, in building a synthetic organic chemicals industry in the United States during World War I. More specifically, ...
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This chapter examines the role played by chemists, many of which had trained in Germany, in building a synthetic organic chemicals industry in the United States during World War I. More specifically, it considers the American chemists' involvement in fighting the war and the sense of patriotism that motivated them to “free” synthetic organic chemistry from German dominance. It also looks at the chemists' use of the American Chemical Society and its journals to voice out their sentiments, together with the reorientation of their research and teaching from universities to the nation. Finally, the chapter discusses the challenges posed by the war to the ideology of scientists, particularly with respect to issues of nationalism and internationalism.Less
This chapter examines the role played by chemists, many of which had trained in Germany, in building a synthetic organic chemicals industry in the United States during World War I. More specifically, it considers the American chemists' involvement in fighting the war and the sense of patriotism that motivated them to “free” synthetic organic chemistry from German dominance. It also looks at the chemists' use of the American Chemical Society and its journals to voice out their sentiments, together with the reorientation of their research and teaching from universities to the nation. Finally, the chapter discusses the challenges posed by the war to the ideology of scientists, particularly with respect to issues of nationalism and internationalism.
Alissa Cordner
- Published in print:
- 2016
- Published Online:
- September 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780231171465
- eISBN:
- 9780231541381
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Columbia University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7312/columbia/9780231171465.003.0002
- Subject:
- Sociology, Science, Technology and Environment
Chapter 2 provides an overview of the history of flame retardant production, regulation, research, and activism in the United States, from early controversies over toxic chemicals used in children’s ...
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Chapter 2 provides an overview of the history of flame retardant production, regulation, research, and activism in the United States, from early controversies over toxic chemicals used in children’s pajamas, to the discovery of the chemicals in women’s breast milk, to dynamic activist campaigns to ban dangerous chemicals, to lobbying efforts by well-funded chemical industry front groups.Less
Chapter 2 provides an overview of the history of flame retardant production, regulation, research, and activism in the United States, from early controversies over toxic chemicals used in children’s pajamas, to the discovery of the chemicals in women’s breast milk, to dynamic activist campaigns to ban dangerous chemicals, to lobbying efforts by well-funded chemical industry front groups.
Alissa Cordner
- Published in print:
- 2016
- Published Online:
- September 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780231171465
- eISBN:
- 9780231541381
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Columbia University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7312/columbia/9780231171465.003.0007
- Subject:
- Sociology, Science, Technology and Environment
The Conclusion integrates the concepts and themes developed throughout the book to offer suggestions for regulators, environmental scientists, activists, and the chemical industry. It offers concrete ...
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The Conclusion integrates the concepts and themes developed throughout the book to offer suggestions for regulators, environmental scientists, activists, and the chemical industry. It offers concrete policy improvements and points to reforms in environmental governance, industry practice, and advocacy work needed for greater environmental and public health protection.Less
The Conclusion integrates the concepts and themes developed throughout the book to offer suggestions for regulators, environmental scientists, activists, and the chemical industry. It offers concrete policy improvements and points to reforms in environmental governance, industry practice, and advocacy work needed for greater environmental and public health protection.
Kathryn Steen
- Published in print:
- 2014
- Published Online:
- January 2015
- ISBN:
- 9781469612904
- eISBN:
- 9781469614458
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of North Carolina Press
- DOI:
- 10.5149/northcarolina/9781469612904.003.0001
- Subject:
- History, American History: 20th Century
This book documents the rise of the synthetic organic chemicals industry in the United States during World War I and the 1920s. It examines the role played by government agencies, firms, and ...
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This book documents the rise of the synthetic organic chemicals industry in the United States during World War I and the 1920s. It examines the role played by government agencies, firms, and universities—and their collective development of a relevant knowledge and information infrastructure—in forging an industry that they somehow managed to connect to the issue of patriotism. It cites the shortages and soaring prices for German synthetic dyes in the United States as an impetus toward the industry's development. It also looks at federal government policies that were meant not only to promote a synthetic organic chemicals industry, but also to inflict hardship on Germany.Less
This book documents the rise of the synthetic organic chemicals industry in the United States during World War I and the 1920s. It examines the role played by government agencies, firms, and universities—and their collective development of a relevant knowledge and information infrastructure—in forging an industry that they somehow managed to connect to the issue of patriotism. It cites the shortages and soaring prices for German synthetic dyes in the United States as an impetus toward the industry's development. It also looks at federal government policies that were meant not only to promote a synthetic organic chemicals industry, but also to inflict hardship on Germany.
Ken Geiser
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- January 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780262012522
- eISBN:
- 9780262327015
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- The MIT Press
- DOI:
- 10.7551/mitpress/9780262012522.003.0005
- Subject:
- Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Developing a truly effective chemical management approach in the United States requires changing the way that the chemicals problem has been framed. Instead of controlling a few hundred truly ...
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Developing a truly effective chemical management approach in the United States requires changing the way that the chemicals problem has been framed. Instead of controlling a few hundred truly dangerous chemicals, we should be focusing on all the chemicals on the market today and progressively shifting towards safer chemicals and non-chemical alternatives. This will require understanding chemicals as products of a massive chemical production, consumption and disposal system that needs to be restructured. A new safer chemical policy framework is needed and a comprehensive chemical conversion strategy that involves three strategic fronts; converting the chemical market, transforming the chemical industry and designing greener chemicals.Less
Developing a truly effective chemical management approach in the United States requires changing the way that the chemicals problem has been framed. Instead of controlling a few hundred truly dangerous chemicals, we should be focusing on all the chemicals on the market today and progressively shifting towards safer chemicals and non-chemical alternatives. This will require understanding chemicals as products of a massive chemical production, consumption and disposal system that needs to be restructured. A new safer chemical policy framework is needed and a comprehensive chemical conversion strategy that involves three strategic fronts; converting the chemical market, transforming the chemical industry and designing greener chemicals.
Scott Christianson
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520255623
- eISBN:
- 9780520945616
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520255623.003.0004
- Subject:
- History, American History: 20th Century
When World War I ended, the United States shut down its poison gas plants for a time. But General Amos Fries and the chemical industry vowed to fight the dismantling of the precious apparatus they ...
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When World War I ended, the United States shut down its poison gas plants for a time. But General Amos Fries and the chemical industry vowed to fight the dismantling of the precious apparatus they had worked so hard to build. Due to their efforts, despite overwhelming public opinion against gas warfare and strong political opposition from his own commanders, Fries and his allies somehow succeeded in gaining passage of the National Defense Act of 1920, which not only saved the Chemical Warfare Service (CWS) from extinction, but also turned it into a permanent part of the army. Under Fries's leadership, the CWS publicly turned its attention to undertaking cooperative enterprises with various government departments to harness the fruits of wartime gas research in constructive, peaceful ways. A fierce industrial and political battle ensued over one of the world's deadliest and more useful poisons: cyanide. The mining industry relied on cyanide's ability to separate silver, gold, copper, lead, and other ores. Fries and his allies lobbied against America's support for the Geneva Protocol, which sought to outlaw chemical warfare.Less
When World War I ended, the United States shut down its poison gas plants for a time. But General Amos Fries and the chemical industry vowed to fight the dismantling of the precious apparatus they had worked so hard to build. Due to their efforts, despite overwhelming public opinion against gas warfare and strong political opposition from his own commanders, Fries and his allies somehow succeeded in gaining passage of the National Defense Act of 1920, which not only saved the Chemical Warfare Service (CWS) from extinction, but also turned it into a permanent part of the army. Under Fries's leadership, the CWS publicly turned its attention to undertaking cooperative enterprises with various government departments to harness the fruits of wartime gas research in constructive, peaceful ways. A fierce industrial and political battle ensued over one of the world's deadliest and more useful poisons: cyanide. The mining industry relied on cyanide's ability to separate silver, gold, copper, lead, and other ores. Fries and his allies lobbied against America's support for the Geneva Protocol, which sought to outlaw chemical warfare.
