Humans, monkeys, and diesel fumes; oh my!
Publication date: 11 June 2019
Issue publication date: 8 July 2019
Abstract
Research methodology
Information about Volkswagen’s human and animal testing was obtained from the secondary sources cited.
Case overview/synopsis
In 2014, Volkswagen (VW), BMW and Daimler funded an institute to conduct research to support their position that diesel engines are cleaner and safer than other fuel alternatives. One of the research studies conducted by the institute examined the effects of diesel fumes on humans and monkeys. Researchers put ten macaque monkeys in sealed rooms and pumped in exhaust fumes from a Volkswagen Beetle for four hours. For comparison, another group of monkeys was exposed to fumes from an older Ford pickup. The monkeys were later anesthetized and examined to see what the fumes did to their bodies. Other tests involved willing human subjects who were exposed to similar conditions.
Complexity academic level
This case is applicable to upper-level management or business ethics class.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Disclaimer. This case is written solely for educational purposes and is not intended to represent successful or unsuccessful managerial decision making. The authors may have disguised names; financial and other recognizable information to protect confidentiality.
Citation
Karl, K., Lamb, N. and Young, O. (2019), "Humans, monkeys, and diesel fumes; oh my!", , Vol. 15 No. 3, pp. 162-170. https://doi.org/10.1108/TCJ-10-2018-0112
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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