George, this is a really great piece. I'm glad for all the positive comments and especially for those who extend and expand the discussion -- many great points are raised.

As a couple sidebars...

Nonprofits in theory should try to put themselves out of business by curing the ills they address. But many become self-absorbed and want and try to grow for growth's sake.

The problem with govt and nonprofit organizations is their success relies on public funding and unselfish commitment by staff. It's easy for people to slack off in both areas if they don't keep the big picture in mind, then dollars effectively get siphoned off. Greed and miserliness can nibble away here too, although it definitely pales in comparison with the greed of for-profit corporations.

Thank you for your thorough thinking on this issue!