A new global ethic

Abstract

Purpose

This paper set out to explore the potential for business leaders to do good in a way that is fully integrated with their organisational objectives and their personal purpose. In light of major issues confronting society, including environmental fragility, financial vulnerability and the reduced influence of traditional institutions, the paper proposes the need for a new global ethic, and suggests that leaders of global enterprises have a particular opportunity to make a profound difference in fostering such an ethic. It aims to explain what such an ethic could look like, and the organisational and personal competencies required for ethical leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the human person as a starting‐point for addressing major challenges, rather than the challenge itself, builds on research by contemporary commentators on social trends, and draws on examples of business leaders who demonstrate the required competencies for a new global ethic.

Findings

The paper identifies the three key elements that are crucial for effective leadership: to master the art of being human, and to master the art of running a successful enterprise, while becoming a servant to society by fostering a new global ethic within their sphere of influence.

Originality/value

The paper identifies the emerging stakeholder concern for profit‐driven firms to become purpose‐driven, and shows how leaders who align personal purpose with organisational mission and societal need can have a positive impact on the world and foster a new global ethic

Citation

Howard, A. (2010), "A new global ethic", Journal of Management Development, Vol. 29 No. 5, pp. 506-517. https://doi.org/10.1108/02621711011039259