>A lot of people do not realize what a fiduciary responsibility is,
>
>from Wikipedia:
>
>A fiduciary duty is the highest standard of care imposed at either equity or law. A fiduciary is expected to be extremely loyal to the person they owe the duty (the "principal"): they must not put their personal interests before the duty, and must not profit from their position as a fiduciary, unless the principal consents
>
>By law, Walmarts board of directors MUST try to maximize shareholder value!
>

But long term or short? Doesn't paying a living wage and building a brand that people want to be loyal to maximize shareholder value in the long run? Paying the lowest possible wages and pissing people off gives short-term gain, but long-term it probably costs.

BTW, have you read Barbara Ehrenreich's "Nickle and Dimed"? It's one of those books everyone should read.

Tamar