Aired on January 13, 2021 on Faith Radio with Carmen Leberge, Bill English discusses the necessity to have a certain level of freedom in order for a robust business climate to survive. We discuss how business is now “all-in” on political discussions. Businesses will take sides and customers will align their purchase decisions with companies who share their political views.
Show Notes:
Business can’t take democracy for granted
Harvard Business Review Article published on Jan 8 – five days ago
Summary:
The fact that millions of Americans see nothing wrong with attempting to overturn the results of an election by force is a threat not only to democracy, but to the long-term health of the economy and to the strength of American business. And while few businesspeople are fans of government, a strong one is necessary for an innovative and entrepreneurial society. That’s why businesses need to finally step up and support democracy, in three key ways: speaking out, with both their voices and their wallets; acting collectively, particularly at the local and state levels; and addressing the roots of the problem, including widespread anger at “the system” and “the elites.”
Their main points:
- Democracy is at stake – never mind that our country was founded in complete rebellion against the crown
- A strong government is necessary for free markets – strengthening our republic is the only way to strengthen our capitalism
- They want businesses now to get involved in the political process
- 68% of republicans don’t see the storming of the capital as a threat to democracy – 32% of independents and 7% of democrats too – the article doesn’t mention this – again, viewpoints fall along party lines
- Who blames Trump? 9 for storming the capital: 6% of democrats, 28% of republicans, 67% of independents
- 25th amendment? Yes: Democrats – 83%; Republicans – 10%; Independents – 47%
- Those who stormed the capital: Terrorists – Democrats – 78%; Patriots – Republicans – 30% (protestors – 50%)
My take aways:
- Life events are seen through a political lens consistently now.
- Our country is deeply polarized by politics and, I think, social media
- It’s becoming difficult to know who to believe. Opinions are presented as fact – disagreement is seen as lying –
- Everyone is group is angry now – and every group has been hated by another group
- Our country needs Christians to love, forgive and demonstrate Christ to this angry, divided, toxic culture
From the Good News Network:
Indian Man Opens ‘Rice ATM’ For People in Need–Using $75k Life Savings to Help Others
Ramu Dosapati – HR executive in India –
Hyderabad region of India – south central part of India
Flooding + COVID left many stranded without home or food.
Ramu took his life savings – $75K and put it into a “Rice ATM” where rice and other necessities are dispensed 24×7
For a camp of migrant workers who were in desperate need
Word got out about Ramu’s self-lessness and other organizations have joined him in support these and other migrant workers.