>they have a better understanding of the world and their position in it.

Try not to use better/worse when advocating so vociferously. As described by the parent they are short-term pragmatic, that is all. This discussion can open up into a huge worldview where different groups have strengths and weaknesses based on this axis of pragmatic/idealistic.

"Companies" are not a monolith, both laterally between other companies, and what they are composed of as well. I'd wager the larger management groups can be pragmatic, where the (longer lasting) R&D manager will probably be the most idealistic of the firm, mainly because of seeing the trends of punching the gas without looking at long-term consequences.

Companies are monolithic in this respect and the idealism of any employee is tolerated only as long as it doesn't impact the bottom line.

> Try not to use better/worse when advocating so vociferously.

Hopefully you see the irony in your comment.