Ian Bremmer, a political scientist who issues an annual list of top 10 global risks, called it right.

At the start of 2022, he put "Corporates Losing the Culture Wars" on his list for this year, declaring, "Consumers—and employees—have corporate boardrooms on the defensive."

"The 'Great Resignation' means companies need to make themselves more attractive to new hires," he said, noting those workers increasingly expect employers to use their clout to better the world, not just make money. That includes taking stands on the often-divisive political and social issues of the day.