The Mensch of Malden Mills

The Mensch of Malden Mills is often touted as an example that not every manager / firm is interested only in profit maximization - that some are motivated by other motives.

I disagree with this claim.I believe that Aaron Feuerstein & Malden Mills are profit maximizing agents.We will discuss this in class, however prior to our discussion you are to answer the following questions to prepare for the discussion.

1)Outline arguments that support the standard interpretation that Mr. Feuerstein isn't concerned with maximizing profit exclusively.

2)Build arguments that Mr. Feuerstein is indeed looking to maximize profit.

3)Consider the firm ownership structure.Would the outcome of this case be different?

4)Consider opportunity cost.What role does opportunity cost play in interpretation?

5)Can you pinpoint the mistake that proponents of the standard interpretation make?