y all of their resources in the effort. Philosophers such as Erich Fromm often suggest expanding the government’s role in business. “Sane consumption is possible only if we can drastically curb the right of the stockholders and management of big enterprises to determine their production solely on the basis of profit and expansion” (Fromm 164). Fromm goes on to state that, “…the tastes of the consumers will decide what is to be produced, once the suggestive power of advertising is ended” (165). During the 1970s, this is precisely what occurred in the automobile industry--without the government’s interference. When consumers were given the option to purchase fuel efficient, reliable, and inexpensive cars from the Japanese manufacturers, or the miserable offerings from the American makers, the choice was clear. As they saw car sales fall, and profit shrink, the American companies had to respond to market pressure with smaller and more efficient automobiles to remain competitive. Expecting the government to devote valuable time and resources to directing production is ridiculous. Should not the consumers decide how to spend their hard-earned money, rather than political bureaucrats, with little or no understanding of the free market system? The government’s role in business is, and must continue to be, as enforcer of fair market rules. Deliberate acts of deception, fraud, or unfair business practice committed by any corporation, must be severely punished as a strong message to those who would consider an unethical path to improving their balance sheet.Often in criticizing the profit motive, author Erich Fromm refers to the teachings of Christianity, and the writings of The Holy Bible. This would certainly suggest to the reader that the motivation of profit as a goal in doing business, is patently evil. Anyone who has read the Bible, of course, would call this perception nonsense. ...
