NAM: SPOKESMAN FOR INDUSTRY?

The article reports on the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), its record of self-interest, and capacity for leadership. NAM is an industry representative with a public-relations strategy for influencing industrial opinion, legislation, politics, and public opinion. NAM is concerned that subversive activities will weaken free enterprise and American confidence in economic institutions. During the 1930s, NAM opposed national social policies, did not show any leadership in dealing with unemployment, and established itself as a supporter of the status quo. In the 1940s, NAM supported the removal of price controls and inflationary fiscal policies. Topics include legislation opposed by NAM and the concept of "unit thinking and unit action" in the industrial population.