Congratulations Marsha Enright

[Kat]

Mr. Manne's excellent article on the creeping socialism of corporate "social responsibility" is right as far as it goes. I'd take it a bit further: "Social responsibility" is an unholy combination of the collectivist idea that every person and organization owes a debt to the "society" that collectively made their existence and achievements possible and the ethical belief that our highest moral achievement is to serve others.

The bottom line? The moral principle that no one has a right to live for his or her own sake. Voila, the mission of corporations transforms from the profit of individual owners and employees to "social responsibility." As Mr. Manne points out, these ideas are contrary to the American ideals of individual freedom, achievement, responsibility and individual happiness -- and they're the way the socialists have been trying to undermine our freedom for decades, in ever-changing permutations.

I would add to Mr. Manne's arguments these: Every achievement making our civilization possible came from the work of individuals -- yes, sometimes working together and often using previous achievements of individuals.

Although humans profit mightily from collaboration, no one thinks with a collective brain, and innovators usually must rely on their individual bank of persistence and courage to advance their achievements against a swarm of opposition.

Marsha Familaro Enright

Reason, Individualism,

Freedom Institute

Chicago

Today a letter from Marsha Enright appeared in the Wall Street Journal and I just wanted to commend her on it. Great job, Marsha and congratulations!

Kat

[F L Light]

I think these couplets are in spirit of Marsha Enriight's letter.

1

Of socialismus disillusioned, strive

In self-promotion socially to thrive.

2

The chiefest efforts of my choice have brought

Welfare in works meticulously wrought.

3

Of socialismus disillusioned, see

Your self from social immolation free.

4

The chiefest efforts of my choice in great

Events continue consonant with fate.

5

Of socialismus disillusioned, find

Your self to sacrifices not confined.

6

Efforts of virile livelihood provide

For welfare, having profit magnified.

7

Of socialismus disillusioned, go

With independent purpose in no flow.

8

Efforts of virile livelihood reveal

A Frank Lloyd Wright who wrought his private weal.

9

Of socialismus disillusioned, be

Resolved on luminescence Clinton-free.

[Michael Stuart Kelly]

Congratulations, Marsha.

Well done.

Michael

[Chris Grieb]

Let me join in Marsha Enright's praise. The Wall Street Journal has one of the highest circulations. It has a readership that has a large number of businessmen and investors. It is perhaps our most important newspaper.

[jenright]

Marsha's at a Liberty Fund conference, so she didn't know about this until I told her she'd made it in. She was quite pleased! Thanks for your comments.

John Enright

Edited December 2, 2006 by jenright