It depends on what the handicaps are. Tremendous talent in Russia, but what does that prove. It isn't about who is "on your team;" it is about what game you are playing.
I agree with the main point, however. It applies to businesses as well as nations. Prior to the merger with McDonnell-Douglas, the cultural ethos at Boeing was "we are a family." After the merger, it was announced that the ethos would now be "we are a team." In other words, no more loyalty from the management down to the workers, just mercenary replacement at will. The senior guys began to look into other employment prospects and their retirement plans.
It depends on what the handicaps are. Tremendous talent in Russia, but what does that prove. It isn't about who is "on your team;" it is about what game you are playing.
I agree with the main point, however. It applies to businesses as well as nations. Prior to the merger with McDonnell-Douglas, the cultural ethos at Boeing was "we are a family." After the merger, it was announced that the ethos would now be "we are a team." In other words, no more loyalty from the management down to the workers, just mercenary replacement at will. The senior guys began to look into other employment prospects and their retirement plans.
This is absolutely true.