The Friedman Doctrine, proposed by economist Milton Friedman, asserts that a company's primary responsibility is to its shareholders. According to this view, businesses should focus on maximizing profits while adhering to the law, as this ultimately benefits society by promoting economic growth and efficiency. Friedman argued that engaging in social responsibility beyond profit-making could divert resources and undermine the free market. He believed that corporate executives should prioritize shareholder interests, as they are the ones who invest in the company and bear the financial risks associated with it.