This American life broadcasts some really interesting, educational, and revealing episodes that dig beneath the headlines to change how you think about what is happening in the world.

A recent compelling episode #454 Mr. Daisey and the Apple Factory is about the expose that was done by Mike Daisey about conditions in Chinese factories and in particular the factories where Apple products are built. Use your Apple product to download the audio (either from the web site or iTunes podcast) that includes part of a masterful monologue, The Agony and Ecstasy of Steve Jobs, that is performed onstage in New York City. As a public speaker I have to compliment Mike on his delivery of this story that is riveting even with just the audio excerpt.

I think it is best for you to come to your own conclusions regarding the cons and pros that are presented but the story makes me feel very grateful that we live in a society where this information can be reported and public opinion can hopefully improve things. Some improvements are already starting to be made such as Apple’s being the first electronics manufacturer to join an fair labour association dedicated to improving working conditions around the world. It is progress but so much more needs to be done.

No excuses should be made for Apple but it probably does need to be said that in the larger context we expect a higher standard from them than we generally do from other (electronics) manufacturers who are doing similar or worse practices. There are many other references in books about China that lay part of the blame for working and environmental conditions there (and other parts of the mostly underdeveloped world) on western society. Huge societal and individual impacts, particularly in countries overseas, are driven by rampant consumerism and relentless demand for reduced prices (and consequently lower business costs). Something to think about the next time you are shopping for the least priced item at Walmart.

If you like This American Life episode #454, a very interesting counterpoint is episode #403 which does a detailed analysis of the opposite extreme of General Motors plants in the US where union members had such entitlement that they abused their jobs and didn’t allow GM to stay competitive with Toyota. Toyota, in a joint venture, actually provided them with all their efficient manufacturing techniques but mostly this did not work in GM due to cultural differences. (This American Life can also be subscribed to for free as a podcast on iTunes).

Taken together, these two episodes don’t paint a rosy picture about prospects for north american business competitiveness especially in the short term. Innovation and disclosure of business practices that are inconsistent with progressive values are going to have to play an important role in improving living conditions around the world.