The neoclassical theory of the firm explains that firms are run entirely for the profit motive of its owners. This has been a widely held theory for many years, with the knowledge that all businesses are purely profit maximizing entities, whose intention is to make profit regardless of the circumstances, actions or omissions.
The profit motive assumption postulates that all actors in the business enterprise are driven by the need to increase their earnings from the business profits. The management wants to earn large pay and bonuses whereas the shareholders want to increase their value for their stocks.
Adam smith, ...