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are a guide and does not supersede standards. The two argue for hours meanwhile the house crashes to the ground.

The question is what do the injured Chinese workers think of Americans? Are we bringing them the "American Dream" or the "American Nightmare?" How can we as one of the richest countries in the world justify not helping these people. Do we as Americans simply turn our backs? Is this truly a matter of legal boundaries or who to blame? The answer to this final question is an emphatic "No."

When an American company is overseas they represent us, our idealisms and our values. Indifference reflects poorly on the American way of life and its people. It may not be stated anywhere but it sure does show our true colors. Taking the short term view in favor of profits will not be acceptable to the American public. This type of behavior will not serve the investors or the public at large.

Replacing machinery, improving conditions may cost thousands and maybe millions, the cost will be defrayed over the long haul. Of course if you keep America's interest in mind, that is the action that you will take. If you improved the work conditions, then production will also improve over time. Workers would be scrambling to be employed by an American company. This would suggest that it would behoove American companies to have the long term view as opposed to short sightedness.

Consumers do have some power; they can decide to desist in purchasing products that are made for these companies. That of course will hurt their bottom line. Consumer groups can move into a political process to bring awareness to government officials regarding this matter. That is another option. The consumer can in the matter of public interest demand that reports involving factories outside the US be submitted for government over sight and enforcement of standards.

I believe American companies can do the right thing. It isn't a question if they can; it is a question if they will. They can bring their best foot forward and they should. We should show off the power of American Wealth especially to the Chinese. Let us show the Chinese that they may know how to produce, but we know how to do it right. Workers' safety is paramount let us lead the way by example. Let us show the true example of American values no matter where in the world our companies operate.

Learn more about this author, John Tebar.
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