Abstract
Aristotelian corporate governance requires a radical change of tack from conventional theories. I shall attempt to develop this broad theme in three major stages. First, I will render something that could pass for an Aristotelian theory of the firm, fully aware that Aristotle himself did not deal with such an institution in his writings. I will have to provide an account of the proper locus and purpose of the firm within the overall context of society. Secondly, I will offer, through an analogy with the common good of the polis or the state, an account of the common good of the firm. I should also propose ways in which the particular common good of the firm could be integrated or subordinated to the wider common good of the political community. Lastly, I will try to explain the theory and practice behind what could stand as Aristotelian corporate governance, one that seeks to achieve the corporate common good.
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Notes
- 1.
“Q. 21” refers to the 21st question of “De Veritate”, “a. 1” to the first article of the respective question, and “c” to the responsio or body (corpus) of this article.
- 2.
“I” refers to the first part (prima pars) of the Summa Theologiae.
- 3.
Book I, chapter 2, § 30.
- 4.
Chapter 13, note 634.
- 5.
Book 19, chapter 13.
- 6.
“II-II” refers to the second part of the second part (secunda secundae partis) of the Summa Theologiae.
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Sison, A.J.G. (2011). Aristotelian Corporate Governance. In: Brink, A. (eds) Corporate Governance and Business Ethics. Studies in Economic Ethics and Philosophy, vol 39. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-1588-2_8
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