Business relationships and Aristotle

Or what corporate types could learn from philosophy:

Aristotle explained that in unequal friendships, “each party neither gets the same from the other nor ought to seek it.” The ancient Greek philosopher’s observation applies to corporate relationships, too. So does his warning that “when one party’s position changes greatly, the possibility of friendship ceases.” Just ask the shareholders of Yahoo, Wynn Resorts and Xstrata.

The fortunes of Yahoo and Alibaba have diverged sharply since 2005, when the rich and respected American Internet company shared $1 billion and some local assets with its promising Chinese rival. The two companies cannot agree on how to unravel what is now a $9 billion tie-up. Alibaba’s Jack Ma is not much inclined to be generous for the sake of an old favour.