The Influence of Large Corporations vs. the US Government: A Deep Dive
When it comes to determining which entity holds more power, the US government or large American corporations, the answer is not as straightforward as it seems. This article explores the dynamics of power in America, including the roles of significant financial institutions and the complex interplay between government and corporate influence.
Government and Corporate Influence in America
The traditional view of the US government as an independent entity often overlooks the significant influence that large corporations exert. Phrases like 'the government is a wholly owned subsidiary of Blackrock Goldman Sucks' (a reference to BlackRock, Goldman Sachs, and other major financial institutions) suggest a nuanced power dynamic where large corporations wield considerable influence over political processes.
Businesses have a profound ability to shape government actions through various means, including political contributions, advocacy, and promises of future support. Even during the Obama administration, corporations like Google were heavily involved in driving political changes in their favor. This influence is not limited to technology companies; all large corporations can use their resources to shape political outcomes.
Regulatory Power and Corporate Influence
The government's power to regulate and control business and trade is extensive. However, in America, corporations often use their influence to drive political action. This influence extends to lobbying, campaign contributions, and strategic partnerships with political entities. For example, when it comes to healthcare insurance, large corporations play a significant role in shaping the laws that govern the industry. Yet, have you ever seen a large corporation change the laws that regulate the functioning of the government or dictate to the government on how to change their revenue model? This highlights the impact of corporate lobbying on government decisions.
Governments vs. Corporations: A Comparative Analysis
The government has the authority to exert force and regulate, but it relies on the populace to fund its operations through taxation. In comparison, corporations can only levy contributions if they have the government's tacit or explicit approval. While corporations aim to maximize profits, they generally do not engage in activities that would directly harm their consumer base, as such actions would ultimately be detrimental to their own financial success in the Information Age.
Governments, on the other hand, can take drastic actions such as killing, conquering, and environmental degradation legally. These actions have profound consequences, often leading to societal and environmental issues that are difficult to reverse. Governments, despite their far-reaching power, are not immune to mission creep, where new departments and functions are added without solving the original problems.
Public Perception and Trust
The trustworthiness of both corporations and governments remains a concern for many individuals. While corporations are not trusted to break into homes and kill people, the government has a history of such actions. Moreover, governments are the largest polluters in the world and have been responsible for numerous deaths, often more than religious institutions.
Despite this, many individuals still hold the belief that if given the chance, the government will solve complex problems. However, the complexity of these issues and the potential for abuse of power suggest that a more balanced approach is needed.
In conclusion, while both the government and large corporations wield significant power, the interplay between them is complex. Understanding this dynamic can help navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the American political and economic system.