Reclaiming a Business Education

As I near the end of my MBA program, I can say that I have learned much, not from the actual coursework but mostly from my fellow classmates. These classmates have offered me a glimpse into their experiences and attitudes and how these have shaped their understanding of the world. I believe that I can claim that much of what I have learned is more of an example of what to avoid both in action and thought.

It is not much of a surprise but these business students, more often than not, fit the mold of the stereotypical business student. They focus on the financial bottom line and do not seem to examine the consequences of their choices. I feel like one of the most pivotal tools that I have ever been taught is always to critique what I am taught. Not necessarily to analyze each piece to death but rather to not merely accept everything as truth. I don't see my fellow business student viewing their education through the same critical eye. This has been and continues to be disheartening.

In light of recent events, I feel as though it is time to start educating business students to focus on actively seeking to improve the lives of others rather than just not causing harm, whatever that may mean. This is a focus on what is their "self-interest," a basic piece of justification for the capitalistic system. It should be taught that "self-interest" isn't just what is good for the person but also the group as a whole. That if the whole is improved, this will, more likely than not, improve everyone's situation and not leave the margin behind. Some may say this sounds socialistic. It could be but it is not exclusive to that system. It is about understanding the consequences of choices. It is an understanding of "I am because we are."

An easy example of this is the fact that currently one of the biggest concerns facing the United States is the state of the health care industry. The country has a huge number of uninsured who have helped lead to the astronomical rise in health care costs. In our current climate, more and more people are being laid-off and, as a result, are losing their health care packages, if their employer provided them with this insurance. So the numbers of people who are uninsured are rising, just magnifying the need to address the health care problem. If we want to help save the economy, a great way to do it would be through universal health care. This would eliminate much stress on families with huge piles of bills that they cannot pay and also provide an economic boost from the government. It would have a significant effect on the future of this country.

Many do not believe that it is in their "self-interest" to have universal health care. Many years ago, many thought it was a bad decision to have a social security system but now, everyone would be up in arms if social security was discontinued, even if they don't "need" it.

With that being said, here is an article that inspired this post.

From a Jesuit publication, America:

What's Good for Business?