Even in these early days of the political campaign season, the strain between business and government is fodder for debate. Business leaders and candidates are quick to share long lists of expectations met. Not surprisingly, those lists rarely match.
The political head-butting underscores serious problems in what should be a collaborative, mutually beneficial relationship, says Daniel Sweeney, PhD, director of the Institute for Enterprise Ethics at the University of Denver’s Daniels College of Business. “All too often, the discussion focuses on two points: Business leaders say they need fewer regulations. Government leaders say businesses should be honest and transparent,” Sweeney says. “Both arguments are legitimate — and both are also woefully shortsighted.