profit motive

noun

the desire for profit that motivates one to engage in business ventures.

Origin of profit motive

First recorded in 1930–35

Words nearby profit motive

profit and loss, profit and loss account, profit center, profit centre, profit margin, profit motive, profit sharing, profit squeeze, profit taking, profit warning, profit-sharing

Cultural definitions for profit motive

profit motive

The ability to earn profits as the reason for producers to make and sell goods.

notes for profit motive

The profit motive is often called a great good or a great evil in society. On the one hand, it is said to represent selfishness; on the other, it is said to drive the free market system. ( See invisible hand.)