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I’ve been thinking about corporate motives: the collective and systemic goals of organizations with large numbers of people working together to achieve something. When it’s good it’s amazing, but when it’s extractive, people suffer.
When profitability and stakeholder interests do align, everyone gets psyched, and magic happens.
How can that be replicated?
Corporate values statements, when published, are self-governance measures. And they frequently limit return on investment (ROI). In practical terms, it’s hard to maintain those values when billions are on the line.
Google’s original motto was “Don’t be evil,” and for a little while, everyone knew what that meant. In 2015 it was changed to “Do the right thing.”
Absent countervailing reasons to consider stakeholders, the environment, and long-term consequences, the drive to maximize ROI prevails every time. Big tech, executives, and shareholders get richer; everyone pays in the long run.
As a counterpoint to this seemingly-inevitable profit-driven slide into oligarchy, many contemporary, conscientious leaders consider both their social responsibility and the bottom line. They do well by doing good… proudly.
In support of those who believe we can do better, this issue explores how companies can apply ethics to thrive.
I remain hopeful,
-David