No, capitalism. Private ownership of industry for profit will always seek efficiency because that maximized profits. now the competition aspect of free enterprise means the less efficient company tends to go out of business. But even without competition (like utility companies) efficiency is profitable and more efficiency is more profitable.
An old MBAer here, and a fervent believer in capitalism.
Now as an ancient MBAer, I believe more in the free market.
Too much of our capitalism today is based on lobbying and bs like that versus the seeking efficiency and research as you noted.
As Trump drains the DC swamp, we will be amazed about the dealings that large to main street business has bought/paid for from illegal workers to laws or treatie or whatever could be bought for their businesses.
That is why Bill Clinton was so popular with industry leaders to again so called main street businesses. He was available for a price and could be bought for some sweet quid pro quo!