Denying harm: The social construction of image in the auto industry

Due to its large-scale, often unrecognized effects, corporate deviance in America is a societal concern that demands further attention. The present research provides deeper insight into the area, with the hope of furthering our knowledge and ultimately reducing the problem. In addition to a lengthy review of the literature surrounding the area, determinations of involvement in corporate deviance regarding GM and its divisions are presented. Those determinations were based upon: (1) the corporate images socially constructed by General Motors (GM); (2) the "safety" of GM vehicles; and (3) GM's constructed safety-related image compared against its actual performance. Conducted through various research methods involving numerous data sets, these measurements assist in determining GM's involvement in misleading the public and/or producing unsafe products.; Various empirical measurements assessed GM's constructed image in relation to its actual performance. GM's constructed image was gauged in relation to actual performance by means of content analyses of Newsweek Magazine, Motor Trend Magazine, and Internet sources. GM's actual performance was measured using (1) GM automobile recalls; (2) driver fatality and injury rates; (3) automobile collision rates; and (4) vehicle crashtests.; Through advertising and marketing strategies, the auto industry has approached the general public with an alleged commitment to automotive safety. The present research tested those commitments and found (1) varying levels of corporate deviance among several GM divisions; and (2) involvement in corporate deviance by GM. Although determinations of guilt are beyond the scope of the present research (for reasons discussed in the text), several conclusions regarding involvement in corporate deviance are made on behalf of GM and its divisions. Those conclusions are discussed in the context of; (1) how they relate to crime; (2) their relationship to the current corporate culture; and (3) the societal implications they present. Suggestions for future research are provided.