You're redefining what the goals are for the rational CEO, not the rational nature of the CEO though. But suppose I believed your goals were proper. I fail to see how 'cutting costs' is going to help a company better meet its corporate charter than maximizing revenue. It seems again the latter would win out, because more revenue, means more cash coming through you which means (a) more potential for cost savings (whereas cost savings don't typically create potential for revenue) and (b) more ability to exploit that cash once you have (a).