One of the little-celebrated powers of Presidents (and other high government officials) is to listen to their critics with just enough sympathy to ensure their silence.
John Kenneth GalbraithRead
Were it part of our everyday education and comment that the corporation is an instrument for the exercise of power, that it belongs to the process by which we are governed, there would then be debate on how that power is used and how it might be made subordinate to the public will and need. This debate is avoided by propagating the myth that the power does not exist.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the significance of recognizing corporate power in governance and encourages public discourse on its proper use.
John Kenneth Galbraith's quote highlights the importance of understanding that corporations play a crucial role in shaping governance through their power. By fostering awareness of this dynamic, it encourages society to engage in meaningful discussions about the usage of such power, contrasting the common belief that corporate influence is nonexistent, which stifles critical debates about public needs and governance.
Themes
CorporationPowerGovernancePublicDebate
In practice
Example use cases
In a panel discussion about corporate governance reform, one might quote this to underscore the role of corporations in shaping society.
More from John Kenneth Galbraith
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Money differs from an automobile or mistress in being equally important to those who have it and those who do not.
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People of privilege will always risk their complete destruction rather than surrender any material part of their advantage.
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