Which motive drives individuals and organizations to seek better material well-being?

• A. Profit motive
• B. Social welfare motive
• C. Consumer protection motive
• D. Stability motive

Answer: (A)

The profit motive is the primary force that drives individuals and organizations within the American free enterprise system to seek improved material well-being. This concept centers on the idea that economic activity is largely motivated by the pursuit of profit, which incentivizes businesses to innovate, increase efficiency, and cater to the needs and desires of consumers. By aiming for profit, companies are motivated to enhance their products and services, explore new markets, and ultimately increase their financial success.

This pursuit not only benefits the businesses themselves but also contributes to overall economic growth, job creation, and the development of better goods and services for consumers. The shift towards profitability encourages competition, which can lead to lower prices and higher quality offerings in the marketplace. In this way, the profit motive serves as a catalyst for economic progress and societal advancement.

In contrast, while social welfare, consumer protection, and stability are important considerations in the economy, they do not primarily drive individuals and organizations toward the goal of enhancing their material well-being in the same way that the profit motive does.