Changemaker

Based on what you read in the first two pages (pages 3 and 4), why are virtue and integrity so vital to an economy? 

Virtue and integrity are so important because, as Handy states, "conceal truth or erode trust, and the game becomes so unreliable that no one will want to play." If businesses can't be honest with their doings, then people will find other ways to stash their wealth, and the whole system will collapse. In fact, Handy suggests that business culture may already be wonky now because people believe that businesses, and the executives that run them, are only out to get success and gain for themselves.

According to Charles Handy, what is the “real justification” for the existence of businesses?

"The purpose of a business, in other words, is not to make a profit, full stop. It is to make a profit so that the business can do something more or better. That “something” becomes the real justification for the business. Owners know this. Investors needn’t care."

The purpose of business is to grow and gain financial success, so that it can turn around and help others do the same. 

What are two solutions proposed by Handy that you agree with? Why?

The first solution I agree with is that leaders need to give a similar oath to the one doctor's take when graduating medical school "I will do no harm." Both doctor's and business executives have immense power to make or break a person, one with their health and the other with their finances. Seems like an oath should be required!

The second solution I agree with is for a business to pursue a cause. If a business owner approaches their business with an eye to service, then they'll be working for something other than financial gain. A business should work for something that either improves the individual's life, or the world as a whole. A good example of this in the reading was George W. Merck, a pharmaceutical giant who gave away a drug to cure river blindness. He could have easily sold the drug for profit, but because his focus was on how medicine was for the patients, not the profit, he gave away a drug just because hw wanted to help others.

Quotes from the lesson:

"Microlending: Toward a Poverty Free World"

-"If we are not achieving something, my first suspicion will fall on the intensity of our desire to achieve it"

-"I simply wish to encourage all of you to remember, irrespective of what you learn in school, always be ready to unlearn and relearn. Don't give up dreaming, be a dreamer and keep on trying to make the dream come true. Dream about the world you would like to have. If we all dream about a better world, I can guarantee you that we will create a better world."