Member-only story
The False Promise of Running Government Like a Business
While this may sound appealing, the reality is far more complex. Treating government like a corporation isn’t just impractical—it's a fundamentally flawed approach. Here’s why.
The False Promise of Running Government Like a Business
The same claim resurfaces every election season: “Government should operate like a business.” Advocates of this idea argue that businesses are efficient, customer-focused, and results-driven—qualities they believe would make government more effective.
While this may sound appealing, the reality is far more complex. Treating government like a corporation isn’t just impractical—it's a fundamentally flawed approach. Here’s why.
Government Serves People, Not Profits
At their core, businesses and governments exist for entirely different reasons. Companies operate to maximize profits for shareholders, while governments exist to serve the public, uphold rights, and provide essential services—often to individuals who would never be considered “profitable customers.” If financial efficiency were prioritized above all else, crucial programs like Social…