The idea that every aspect of society should be driven by profit is a pervasive one, but it’s important to remember that not all institutions and services operate under this model, nor should they. As the saying goes, “Someone clearly needs a refresher: Sesame Street isn’t a for-profit company. Neither is the Post Office. Cops and firefighters aren’t there to turn a profit. Not every part of society is supposed to make money.”
Sesame Street, for example, is produced by Sesame Workshop, a non-profit organization. Its primary goal is to educate and enrich the lives of children, not to maximize shareholder value. The Post Office, while it does generate revenue, is fundamentally a public service, designed to connect people and facilitate commerce, regardless of profit margins. Similarly, police officers and firefighters provide essential services that protect and serve communities. Their value is measured in public safety and well-being, not financial gain.
The notion that everything should be run for profit often leads to prioritizing cost-cutting over quality of service, and can neglect those who are unable to pay. A society that views everything through a profit lens risks undermining crucial functions that are essential to the common good.