At the same time, we will explore competing philosophies of life that question the essence of corporate governance.
We invite PhD students, seasoned scholars, and practitioners to present their research papers. We are also eager to hear from independent board directors interested in attending and contributing to the panel discussions.
Call for papers
(Corporate) governance carries a profound responsibility, not only for the future of business but for the well-being of the planet Earth. However, current debates predominantly revolve around paradigms developed in the 20th century, focused on efficiency, growth, and profit maximization. Much of our thinking remains trapped within these “iron cage” frameworks, perpetuating systems of mass consumption and material accumulation. As a result, it created unbalances in the environment and the society, leading to unprecedented global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and social unrest.
A transformation in corporate governance logic is necessary if we are to confront these challenges and ensure a suitable future for the living. This shift requires scholars to embrace alternative and new epistemologies. A more moral, glocal, interconnected, and reflective approach to corporate governance can open up the stream of possibilities for corporations to prioritize life at the core of their decision-making. Boards must assume a central role in this thinking, transcending predominantly profit motives to advance the collective good. In doing so, they can help to facilitate the exchange of local wealth and ideas across borders. Although a growing number of corporations are demonstrating forward-looking glocal citizenship, their numbers remain insufficient. Revisited governance is essential to meet the challenges of our time.
Philosophers and scientists have critiqued the prevailing paradigm, offering theoretical frameworks that redefine the economy as a means for collective wealth and social progress, rather than an end in itself. This alternative paradigm places the planet, living beings, ecosystems, and society at the heart of both business decision-making and policymaking. Having an impact (even positive) is not assuming a role in society.
Through this Call for Papers, we invite research papers and essay contributions that explore and advance thinking on the roles of boards of directors, corporate governance structures, and related areas such as social and environmental performance, social activism, technologies for good, meta-thinking, and board decision-making. We particularly encourage submissions in the form of essays of around 3,000 words. A selection of these essays will be considered for publication in an edited volume.
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