Enlightened Capitalists: Cautionary Tales of Business Pioneers Who Tried to Do Well by Doing Good

The book "The Enlightened Capitalists" by James OToole explores the history of business people who tried to marry the pursuit of profits with virtuous organizational practices. It tells the stories of such entrepreneurs as Robert Owen, John Cash Penney, Levi Strauss, Anita Roddick, and Tom Chappell, who adopted forward-thinking business practices designed to serve the needs of their employees, customers, communities, and the natural environment. OToole questions whether virtuous corporate practices are compatible with shareholder capitalism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 592 pages
Publication date: 04 April 2019
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Inc

The pursuit of profits and virtuous organizational practices has been a complex and evolving journey for business leaders throughout history. From British industrialist Robert Owen to American retailer John Cash Penney and jeans maker Levi Strauss, to modern-day entrepreneurs Anita Roddick and Tom Chappell, these individuals have grappled with the challenge of marrying the two seemingly opposing forces.

In today's world, business leaders are increasingly being pressured by citizens, consumers, and government officials to address urgent social and environmental issues. While some corporate executives remain deaf to these calls, over the last two centuries, a handful of business leaders in America and Britain have attempted to create business organizations that were both profitable and socially responsible.

In his book, "The Enlightened Capitalists," James OToole tells the largely forgotten stories of men and women who adopted forward-thinking business practices designed to serve the needs of their employees, customers, communities, and the natural environment. These individuals sought to prove that executives could pursue profit without compromising their values and principles.

OToole's book combines a wealth of research with vivid storytelling, bringing life to historical figures like William Lever, the inventor of bar soap who created the most profitable company in Britain and used his money to greatly improve the lives of his workers and their families. However, Lever's idealistic practices were eventually terminated by creditors, a fate that befell many idealistic capitalists throughout history.

As a new generation of business leaders attempts to address social problems through enlightened organizational leadership, OToole explores a major question being posed today in Britain and America: Are virtuous corporate practices compatible with shareholder capitalism? This question is particularly relevant in the age of globalization, where companies operate on a global scale and have a significant impact on society and the environment.

OToole's book provides valuable insights into the history and challenges of ethical leadership in business, and offers a roadmap for creating organizations that are both profitable and socially responsible. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of business, ethics, and social responsibility.

Weight: 784g
Dimension: 236 x 167 x 47 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780062880246