Business Ethics: Some Insights from Buddhism

Simon S.M. Ho

There are three main objectives of this presentation: (1) to demonstrate how studies of modern business ethics, CSR and sustainability can learn from Buddhism philosophy; (2) to outline the basic distinct Buddhist perspective and practical applications of some basic Buddhist doctrines/principles, i.e. a Buddhist-inspired approach to business ethics, and (3) to promote developing a more systematic research framework in applying and measuring the practice of some Buddhist doctrines such as the Noble Eightfold Path.
It is stressed that a Buddhist perspective on business ethics should take into account the individual in a holistic manner. It focuses on one’s interconnected cognitive efforts, inner thoughts, feelings, and behaviour. Additional research is needed to develop instruments for adopting Buddhist principles and measuring its practice and effectiveness.