Towards a Human Centered Theory and Practice of the Firm

Pirson, Michael; von Kimakowitz, Ernst

doi:10.2139/ssrn.1654827

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Towards a Human Centered Theory and Practice of the Firm

Fordham University Schools of Business Research Paper No. 2010-006

40 Pages Posted: 7 Aug 2010 Last revised: 30 Oct 2013

See all articles by Michael Pirson

Michael Pirson

Fordham University - Gabelli School of Business; Humanistic Management Network; Harvard University

Ernst von Kimakowitz

Humanistic Management Center; The Humanistic Management Network; University of St. Gallen

Date Written: August 7, 2010

Abstract

In this paper we review the challenges to the current economic system, and proceed by presenting two competing paradigms- the economistic and the humanistic paradigm of business. We then develop the consequences of the humanistic view for the theory of the firm and the practice of the firm. We examine business strategy, governance structures, leadership styles, and organizational culture and illustrate them based on global case examples. In this manner we contribute to the discussion of alternative theories of the firm centering the debate on authentic human needs and its consequences for management theory.

Keywords: Theory of Firm, Humanism in Business, Humanistic Management, Business Paradigms

JEL Classification: A00,B00, M00

Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation

Pirson, Michael and von Kimakowitz, Ernst, Towards a Human Centered Theory and Practice of the Firm (August 7, 2010). Fordham University Schools of Business Research Paper No. 2010-006, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1654827 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.1654827