Korporations- The new Cingdoms?

It is said that 'history repeats itself.' The modern history is marked by consolidation of countries, revolutions leading to shift of power to the masses and the end of royalty. One may argue that we're witnessing the juncture of history where Kingdoms have come to their ultimate end. If you see the bigger picture, it is evident that the 'Corporations' are the latest social system replacing it.

If this is difficult to digest, just glance at the combined wealth of the 'Fortune 500 Companies' and it is sure surmount the GDPs of some of the most developed countries;The nations in the league of super-powers. These new empires are now 'global', having existence wherever they can sell and extending to the virtual world, accessible at the click of a mouse button.

The CEOs are the new Kings, persuading the humanity to buy their idea of an ideal lifestyle; Designing a product which makes them an intergal part of a social class enjoying a specific standard of living. The laws of 'Arthashastra' for managing kingdoms apply in governing these dynasties. The corporate structures represent the different approaches in acquiring power. Succession is not hereditary, but determined by long-term commitment or outstanding innovation. The senior management employees are treated like the 'Ministers' with heavy paychecks and benefits. They can switch kingdoms, like their sovereign counterpart but the kingdom enjoys perpetual existence.The fight for power through physical war has been replaced by the battle of Intellectual Simulation or Influence, where the kingdoms selling similar ideas try to outwit each other.

The consumer's may be the Kings, but the Kings need to maintain a lifestyle and that is where the co.s come in. The simpler and more universal the concept of their offering, more appeal shall it have to charm the masses. Just a simple illustration, introspect the occupation of the soda drinks in our daily lifestyle. The world nations can now be distinguished into those preferring Pepsi and the others preferring Coca-Cola products.

The way to the stimulate membership for these kingdoms can be defined as follows:

1. First, they enchant you with the creation- ATTRACTION

2. Your senses weaken with the offer- CONSUMPTION

3. Congratulations! You're now the slave of the 'Co.' - ADDICTION

Thus, the want becomes the need. The rat begins the race and the master with a newer cheese every time succeeds in luring him.

Like every era, there is duality. there are some good kings and some bad ones. There are NGOs, trusts and social entrepreneurs still serving social needs. It has emerged as a guiding light to the ignored subjects. A trend, where the people are shifting.

So, the point remains the synonymous. How does one climb the social ladder? How does one inherit Royal Blood? The solution lies in learning or marrying the royal way- Co.!

Concluding with a quote from Bhagavad Gita-

"Alas! We are ready to commit a great sin by striving to slay our kinsmen because of greed for the pleasures of the kingdom"