The human cost of your iPad
While excited would-be owners of Apple’s new iPad wait in orgasmic anticipation of their pre-orders, their chances at owning this “revolutionary” and “magical” new device, we fail to recognise some grim consequences that their manufacture accompanies.
In light of recent suicides by employees from Apple’s Chinese manufacturer Foxconn, caused by severe stress, harassment and interrogation, the company is now reportedly attempting to tackle the issue by enforcing no-suicide contracts and installing “preventative” nets around buildings to prevent jumpers.
Apple is reported to be conducting its own investigations in the matter.
Apple’s statement in response to the last suicide of employee Sun Danyong states:
Regardless of the reason of Sun’s suicide, it is to some extent a reflection of Foxconn’s internal management deficiencies, especially in how to help young workers cope with the psychological pressures of working life at the company.
It’s sobering news at a time when many Apple fans celebrate their new acquisitions.
Real more articles on the topic here and here.
2 Responses to “The human cost of your iPad”
May 28th, 2010 saat: 5:52 pm
Grim times definitely.
There has been many a time when I have looked at my iProducts with contempt lately. My Nike shoes too.
But Foxconn isn’t the only company in the world that has employee suicide. We just hear about it so much because Apple is an immensely popular brand. In fact, Foxconn’s suicide numbers are actually lower than China’s national average (though still very bad nonetheless). Read here: http://bit.ly/bzYLJX
You may also find this article quite an interesting read - an undercover reporter joins Foxconn’s work force. http://bit.ly/aG9bao
PS. Those No-Suicide contracts are ridiculous.
May 28th, 2010 saat: 5:57 pm
Thanks for your insights Johnny.
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