We still think and talk of the basic problems of an industrial society as problems that can be solved by changing the system, that is the superstructure of political organization. Yet the real problems lie within the [industrial] enterprise. ...our representative institution... a mirror in which we look when we want to see ourselves. -- The New Society (1950)
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Industrial problems lie within the enterprise, not the political superstructure.
- In plain terms
- Don't change political systems to fix industrial issues; focus on the enterprise itself.
- What can you take from it?
- Address internal industrial issues before changing political structures.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why look at enterprises instead of government?
- Can enterprise changes succeed without politics?
Another view
Politics often shape enterprise structures significantly.
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