The problem is that corporations as you are thinking of them (private companies) are not the only kind of legal person. Governmental organizations are also inc

The problem is that corporations as you are thinking of them (private companies) are not the only kind of legal person. Governmental organizations are also incorporated persons, including governments themselves (otherwise you wouldn't be able to sue the United States). Non-corporate entities like nonprofits, partnerships, cooperatives, educational institutions, etc are also legal persons, and need to be for the same reasons.