Merck's Record Cancer Drug Sales: Just-In-Time Capitalism for Your Suffering
Merck is popping champagne corks, according to the Financial Times, after its cancer drug, Keytruda, raked in over $8 billion in a single quarter. This 'record' success contributes to 'earnings growth,' which is fantastic news for shareholders, but less so for the millions globally without access to such life-saving medications due to exorbitant costs. While Merck’s executives enjoy unprecedented
bonuses, one might wonder: how many lives could be saved if profit wasn't the primary driver? This isn't about blaming a company for innovation—it's about the system. The media portrays these quarterly earnings as business triumphs, rather than examining the ethical implications of a healthcare model where human suffering is directly correlated with shareholder value. The 'miracle drug' becomes a
goldmine, ensuring that the critical question of universal access remains conveniently off the balance sheet and out of the headlines. It's a testament to a system that celebrates treating the sick, not preventing illness or ensuring equitable access to care.