Inoculating the electorate: a qualitative look at American corporatocracy and its influence on health communication

Abstract

This research examines the profit-driven agendas, non-branded marketing strategies, and commercialized propaganda that influence citizen trust in health communication messages. Specifically focusing on Rick Perry’s 2007 human papilloma virus vaccination mandate, we highlight the role that corporate funding plays in legislation, regulation, and voter/consumer behavior. Emergent findings from in-depth interviews with Texas residents, in combination with US media reports, illustrate the questionable communications contaminating consumer trust and public health. Our critical analysis of health promotion reflects the commodification of health consciousness in the United States.

Keywords:

• public trust
• health communication
• Merck pharmaceuticals
• Rick Perry
• Gardasil vaccination
• Merck
• Texas
• in-depth interviews

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank the anonymous reviewers, associate editor, and editor for their considerate feedback and invaluable recommendations regarding this manuscript.