In a society where success is the leading value, is it strange that rules and laws are seen as obstacles rather than as guidelines on the road to esteem and respect? What is the value of rules without a solid respected and applied set of norms and values?
Reflections from Menso Fermin, Director of CIB

By Menso Fermin, Director, Caux Initiatives for Business

The 21st century was greeted by many as the promise of a better future. Two years into the new millennium, many dreams were shattered. For many in the third world, the glimmer of hope on the horizon is still too hazy. Long lasting conflicts escalate in the absence of hope and turn more violent. Human security is threatened by violence, greed and an unequal distribution of power and wealth.

The current economic problems seem to be based on exuberant expectations and greed, where the thinking of many has been influenced by the prospect of instant virtual wealth. The events of September 11, 2001 not only destroyed the lives of many and brought fear into the lives of those in the western world, it also made us realise the economic bubble had burst. The economic bubble of the 1990’s was kept alive by dishonesty and deceit.

The modern society increasingly bases its security on rules and regulations. Meant as a barrier for undesirable behaviour, these rules seem to work as a red cloth does to the eyes of the bull. We may realise it is bad, but we cannot resist the challenge of finding opportunity behind the red cloth. Finding the loopholes in the tax regime is not that far removed from creative accounting. In a society where success is the leading value, is it strange that rules and laws are seen as obstacles rather than as guidelines on the road to esteem and respect? What is the value of rules without a solid respected and applied set of norms and values?

Often, in times of economic prosperity we seem to be lenient with standards and rules. Success is a benefit to all in the society. Unfortunately, the dishonesty and deceit show their vigour at the times growth slows down: from the banking crisis in Japan and the collapse of the industrial giants in Korea, to the accounting scandals in the USA. By the time we realise something is wrong, and management coughs, the workers catch a cold, and the third world catches pneumonia.

In these times where our sense of security is threatened by violence, crime, and deceit there is an urgent call for integrity, responsibility and accountability in human relations, as well as in economic and public governance. For a formula of integrity, responsibility and accountability to work, words are not enough. What is needed is a thorough understanding of the values and foundations on which our society and freedom are built.

What do you think? Send your comments to Caux Initiatives for Business.