There has grown up in the minds of certain groups in this country the notion that because a man or corporation has made a profit out of the public for a number of years, the government and the courts are charged with the duty of guaranteeing such profit in the future, even in the face of changing circumstances and contrary to public interest. This strange doctrine is not supported by statute or common law. Neither individuals nor corporations have any right to come into court and ask that the clock of history be stopped, or turned back.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Corporations do not have a legal right to guaranteed profits; markets change.
- In plain terms
- Profits are not guaranteed by government; laws do not ensure them.
- What can you take from it?
- Accept that business profits vary with circumstances and law.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do companies deserve guaranteed profits?
- How should government treat business profits?
Another view
Stable environments can help businesses plan long-term profits.
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