JEP Foundation

Pure, unadulterated greed is NOT a good thing and is no longer acceptable

Companies we’re associated with reflect our values. So what does that say about “us” when our companies exploit the weaknesses and poverty of others? If we truly want a better world, then owners, employees, and shareholders must behave differently. The principles of Just Enough Profit can guide us in operating our business in ways that benefit humanity, not exploit it.

We’re not talking about decreasing corporate revenue; it’s the allocation of profits we’re interested in. Many people brag “Look how much money I make!” First of all, that’s an narcissistic viewpoint, and second, it’s not very enlightened. We want to change the bragging rights to “Look how much my company has done for humanity!” The good your company does may result in better working conditions, lower prices, charitable donations, or an improved standard of living. And you can still make enough money for yourself, while being mindful of the needs of others.

Applying the tenets of Humanistic Capitalism allows us to master personal greed and change the world one company at a time.

In this society, why is greed considered a good thing? Why do our business schools teach “Greed is good?” Wanting to make a good living and have abundant material possessions is one thing, but without a moral compass it’s just greed. So wanting good things for our family and our progeny is perfectly acceptable; doing so without thought to the future of society or the world at large is not.

Through the millennia, the breadth and depth of man’s inhumanity to man knows no bounds; it boggles the mind. We now face a choice—to conduct ourselves honorably, or not. Do we recognize the needs of our fellow man, and stand for something worth standing for, or do we continue to act in the same degrading and predatory manner we have for thousands of years? We now have the opportunity to make life better, not just for ourselves but for everyone on Earth. And we can do it in an honorable, generous, and compassionate manner. Humanistic Capitalism embodies these values. Anyone can do it; all it takes is someone who cares about others.

1 Comment for this entry

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  Benjamin Donlon

  February 3rd, 2012 on 9:08 pm

  I completely agree with this post! The profit-driven model has put morals and ethics to the wayside. Logically this has always bothered me, due to the in-sustainability of systems like that. Is it not better for long term reliable growth instead of short-term profits at the expense of the consumer? Do we not want repeat customers whom directly benefit from the product, or should we be hurting them and subverting them in confusing and misplaced product placements? I think the choice is obvious. Thank you for this post!