Wealth Maximization, Self-Realization, and the Spiritually Sustainable Enterprise

Abstract

We argue for a spirituality-based, self-realization perspective on organizational ethics and action that stands in contrast to the more commonly held wealth maximization perspective. We first describe the wealth maximization perspective paying particular attention to its power, pervasiveness, and ability to shape what we consider to be organizational ethics. Then, we develop an alternative perspective that rests on a more metaphysical and collective consideration of self realization as an alternative orientation for guiding our ethical determinations. We argue that engaging organizational ethics from the perspective of self realization provides a more solid foundation for conceptualizing and creating sustainable enterprises and for mitigating many of the ethical dilemmas that arise from the dominance of wealth maximization.

Keywords:

• Sustainability
• Self-Realization
• Connectedness
• Ethics
• Agency Theory