Making a profit is no more the purpose of a corporation…
“Making a profit is no more the purpose of a corporation than getting enough to eat is the purpose of life. Getting enough to eat is a requirement of life; life's purpose, one would hope, is somewhat broader and more challenging. Likewise with business and profit.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Corporate profit is a means to sustain operations, not the ultimate purpose; broader goals give deeper meaning.
In simple terms: Profit sustains, but purpose drives.
Align business with higher purpose.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- strategic planning
- social entrepreneurship
- personal fulfillment
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What higher purpose can your organization serve?
- How does profit support that purpose?
Profit alone cannot guarantee fulfillment; purpose matters.