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Survival Of The Fittest: An American Auto Industry Tale

SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST: AN AMERICAN AUTO INDUSTRY TALE

Survival of the Fittest: An American Auto Industry Tale

Jeff Burgner

Axia College

Abstract

Detroit’s “big three” are on life-support and about to become part of American history. Congress has given them a life-line and an ultimatum to change the way they do business or don’t come knocking on their door again asking for another handout. While past monetary and fiscal policies may have played a role in their demise, the fact remains that for years the automakers have failed to pay attention to the influences of the market. Consumers want vehicles that are environmentally safe, fuel efficient, and reasonably priced. Detroit must pick up the pieces and rebuild their industry from the ground up, or suffer extinction in an industry where only the strong survive.

Survival of the Fittest: An American Auto Industry Tale

The term “survival of the fittest” was a 19th century reference to natural selection that believed the weak would be eliminated in the struggle for existence. The “big three” automakers of the United States may soon take their place in history beside the mighty dinosaurs that once roamed the earth, unless they can find a way to rise from the ashes like the mythical phoenix. Anyone with a good eye or a sound ear has read or heard a media story over the past months giving account of the troubles the US auto-makers are currently facing. They’ve been before congress on more than one occasion to beg for “bailout” money like a homeless person on an interstate on-ramp. While congress reluctantly agreed to throw a few billion in change their way in hopes of saving the jobs of millions of American workers, the fact remains to be seen whether or not they waste it away and return for another hand-out. Some believe the big three’s problems are a direct result of the United States government showing favoritism to the foreign automakers. Others feel the blame lies in the failure of the...