by Tom Gallagher
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Time Magazine's May 25, 2009, issue has a number of fine articles (e.g., on adult autism). It's cover story is titled, "The Future of Work." On page 41 there is a short story about "Training Managers to Behave," and includes an oath recited by M.B.A. graduates of Phoenix based business school, Thunderbird School of Management, that goes like this:
"As a Thunderbird and global citizen, I promise....[that] I will strive to act with honesty and integrity. I will respect the rights and dignity of all people. I will strive to create sustainable prosperity worldwide. I will oppose all forms of corruption and exploitation. And I will take responsibility for my actions. As I hold true to these principles, it is my hope that I may enjoy an honorable reputation and peace of conscience." Impressive given the state of Wall Street, corporate America and capitalism.
The article goes on to point out that such oaths lack teeth because M.B.A. graduates do not need a state license to be manager or an executive, and therefore, are not subject to malpractice lawsuits like doctors, lawyers, nurses, accountants and so on. Nonetheless, the oath-taking seems like a good "awareness builder" that in fact, one can do well by doing good both inside the corporation and in the community. Such behavior most definitely serves the common good.
