> What is a business to do, maximize business or manager contentment ?

A "business" is still just a collection of people. Each person is going to take actions that are in their best interests.

What I'm saying is that the business's interests are not aligned with the people comprising that business.

In that regard, what "the business" wants is irrelevant.

> What I'm saying is that the business's interests are not aligned with the people comprising that business.

Yep, that's the point of capitalism.

> In that regard, what "the business" wants is irrelevant.

And yet here we are. Companies get fined left and right for breaching rules but it's ok because it earned them money. There are literal plans made to calculate whether it's profitable to cheat or not. In the current system, what the business wants always wins over individual qualms, unfortunately.

Because the punative system in most countries doesn't affect individuals. As a manager, you're not going to jail for breaking environmental laws, a different entity (the company) is paying for being caught. So, it's still the rational thing to do to break the environment laws to make your groups numbers go up and get a promo or bonus.