By Ralph Nader Harry Truman once asked for a one-armed economist in the hopes of never again having to hear “on the one hand, this” and “on the other hand, that.” Given the recent Congressional Budget Office (CBO) report on the effects of the minimum wage — one chock full of “on the other hands” … Read more
By Ralph Nader Imagine this metaphorical scenario. You are cruising along a highway and you are pulled over by a police officer. You’re not sure why you were stopped. The patrol officer approaches and gives the signal to roll down the window. You oblige. “How fast were you going?” the officer might ask after examining … Read more
By Ralph Nader When the news broke years ago that U.S. forces were using torture on prisoners at Guantanamo Bay detention camp, many politicians and the public expressed appropriate horror. There was shock and disappointment that our country would resort to such inhumane, abusive actions against our fellow human beings, most of whom then were … Read more
By Ralph Nader An epidemic of sky-rocketing medical costs has afflicted our country and grown to obscene proportions. Medical bills are bloated with waste, redundancy, profiteering, fraud and outrageous over-billing. Much is wrong with the process of pricing and providing health care. The latest in this medical cost saga comes from new data released last … Read more
By Ralph Nader Earlier this month, a delegation of activists took to Capitol Hill to demand a decrease in the massive, out-of-control military budget. As millions of Americans struggle with inadequate health care, low wages, deteriorating public services and uncertainty about their futures as the wage gap between the wealthy elite and the working poor … Read more
By Ralph Nader In the age of the internet, smartphones and 24/7 media encapsulating so many Americans’ time, talents and interests, it is quite refreshing (and rare!) to come across those who are deeply interested and invested in their own states, towns and communities. There is much to be learned about the places we call … Read more
By Ralph Nader Nelson Mandela’s exceptional and exemplary life will produce worldwide celebrations of his extremely unique blend of character, personality and resolve for broad-gauged justice for generations to come. To truly memorialize his contributions, however, requires grand actions. As leaders of governments and human rights groups from all over the world prepare to attend … Read more
By Ralph Nader One of the most profitable corporations in America is having a holiday food drive. Sounds good — it’s the least Corporate America can do for those struggling to make ends meet while big companies rake in record profits and give so little back. But wait… there’s a catch. The food drive is … Read more
By Ralph Nader When one considers Walmart’s company slogan — “Save money. Live better.” — it almost seems as if they are referring to their corporation’s big shareholders — the super-rich Walton family — rather than their employees or the communities they squeeze. After all, Walmart is the same company that has recently made headlines … Read more
DEBATING TABOOS A debate series by Ralph Nader & the Center for Study of Responsive Law What are the Pitfalls and Benefits of Using Ballistic Missile Defense? Friday, April 12, 2013 12 p.m. 1530 P St. NW Washington, DC The debate, held at the Carnegie Institution of Washington building, addressed a taboo subject in electoral, … Read more