We are now heading down a centuries-long path toward increasing the productivity of our natural capital - the resource systems upon which we depend to live - instead of our human capital.
Paul HawkenRead
We have to ask ourselves, 'What kind of world is it where a baby-food executive substitutes artificial flavoring and sugar for apple juice? What kind of businesses have we created when we even lie to infants?'
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote questions the morality of business practices that prioritize profit over integrity, especially when it affects the innocent.
Paul Hawken's quote critiques the ethical standards upheld in business, specifically highlighting how the substitution of artificial ingredients for natural ones in baby food represents a broader moral failure. It invites us to reflect on the implications of how far we are willing to go for profit, especially when it compromises the well-being of the most vulnerable members of society, such as infants.
Themes
MoralityBusinessEthicsIntegrityVulnerability
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion on corporate responsibility at a business ethics seminar.
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