The article, “When faced with so called ‘progressive business’, stay skeptical,” delves into the conversation of how business should be performed in relation to both making a profit and contributing to social responsibility. Milton Friedman’s strict view of business valued on fierce competition and substantial profit maximization has been tested over the years by progressive business sometimes referred to as, “creative capitalism.” Progressive business does not just reward shareholders, but rewards all stakeholders creating social responsibility and equal betterment for all. The central argument and theme of this article revolves around the government’s active participation in social responsibility. The concluding concept is as follows; “While progressive business can certainly help achieve good things, it should not be a substitute for progressive politics.” First and foremost, the government, along with its rules and regulations, must be the foundation for social responsibility. Then, businesspeople can practice progressive business complimenting the government’s socially just motives. The government should set the tone for social responsibility, and progressive business should follow government’s lead but not be pressured to take these responsibilities over.
I believe this conversation on progressive business is a tricky subject. Businesses need to find a common ground between Freidman’s view of business and extreme progressive business. I am unsure of where this common space lies. However, it is important to highlight the government’s leadership in practicing social responsibility and in turn, the business’s duty to follow government guidelines while generating a socially just profit.