Abstract
This article deals with the idea of human communities in business, government and other economic institutions that are predicated upon compatibility and a mutual desire for the common good. It explores the notion that the greatest single contribution the 20th century might make is to improve the ways men and women live and work together. The achievement of such a worthy goal can increase the overall productivity of an economic system just as much as the most profound technological advances and discoveries.
There is a fine metaphysical distinction between the human being as an individual and as a person. This distinction is important in understanding the interaction between the common good of the economic enterprise and a common ethical ground.
Significant selections from managers, philosophers and ethics scholars are brought together and presented for consideration.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
Additional information
J. Eugene Kangas is Professor and Chairman, Dept. of Business Administration, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Eau Claire, WI 54701. His most important publication is: Marketing Automobiles in the United States, Colwell Publishing Co., Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Kangas, J.E. Compatible human communities: The role of ethics in modern enterprise. J Bus Ethics 2, 127–133 (1983). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00381704
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00381704