Auto industry Quote by James Surowiecki
“In the auto industry, there's one thing you can always count on: if a new environmental or safety rule is proposed, executives will prophesy disaster.”
About This Quote
Source Article: The New York Times, “The Disaster Myth in Auto Regulation”, 2019
Executives predict catastrophic outcomes whenever new safety or environmental regulations are suggested, reflecting fear of change and profit loss.
In simple terms: Regulators cause panic among auto leaders.
Anticipate and address industry concerns early.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy drafting
- corporate strategy meetings
- public advocacy
- industry lobbying
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can data be used to counteract disaster narratives?
- What incentives could align executives with safety goals?
Predictions often ignore data showing long‑term benefits of regulation.