Pinto-Garay, J.

Business and Professional Ethics Journal

Volume 34, Issue 1, Spring 2015

Abstract:

This article proposes a theory of the firm based on the concept of common good provided by the Aristotelic-Thomistic (A-T) and Catholic Social Thought (CST) traditions, with particular attention given to the concept of work. We argue that the incorporation of a concept of work, based on the A-T and CST traditions, provides a better understanding of the firm’s common good in terms of sociability, cooperation, personal fulfillment and friendship. In this manner, taking into account an A-T and CST concept of work, we provide a better understanding of different aspects in which the common good can be achieved within the firm.

 

Pinto-Garay, J. & Ferrero, I.; Scalzo, G.

Business and Professional Ethics Journal

2021

Abstract

This paper aims to integrate the concept of autonomous and subordinated work into Aristotelian organizational theory by enhancing the epistemological framework of neo-Aristotelianism and by adding a Thomistic interpretation of organizational practical knowledge. We sustain that, in order to advance our understanding of the firm in terms of excellence and the common good, the concept of practical knowledge applied to organizational theory requires reflection on the nature of work in modern organizations. For this, we will explain (i) how an organization that aims for excellence is most appropriately defined as a community of autonomous work, (ii) how practical knowledge in organizations must be defined considering work as deliberative production and, finally, (iii) how productivity in organizations is best described when work is envisioned in terms of autonomy and

subordination

In Advanced Research Methods for the Social and Behavioral Sciences

Cambridge University Press

Ed. by John E. Edlund & Austin Lee Nichols.

Abstract

This chapter explores the professional activity of researchers and research managers in social sciences considering the ethical principles that ought to shape their work. Because of academic researchers have different perceptions and attitudes regarding what constitute unethical behaviour in conducting their research, we offer an overview of the recommendations for best practices in social science research set out in professional codes of conduct and in other documents. In particular, this chapter focuses on the ethical issues related to the design, development, implementation, and publication of research projects.

In Business Ethics. A Virtue Ethics and Common Good Approach

Ed. by Sison, A.; Ferrero, I.; Guitián, G.

Routledge

This chapter explains fostering virtuous work among employees as the guiding moral principle of human resource (HR) managers. It presents virtuous work as one that prioritizes excellence and intrinsic motivation over effectiveness and extrinsic motivation, and is, at the same time, meaningful and engaging. The chapter shows how to create an organizational culture or corporate ethos that is supportive of virtuous work. There is a moral guiding principle to HR practices and strategic responsibilities. This principle orients standards in HR practices, such as personnel assessment methods, training, reinforcing good behavior, introducing codes of conduct and preventing malpractice. The chapter highlights the importance of approaching work as a meaningful activity and the role of HR managers in developing a virtuous organizational culture. It illustrates the understanding of the different dimensions of work and how this can affect productivity and action

In Handbook of Virtue Ethics in Business and Management,

International Handbooks in Business Ethics 1-8.

Alejo José G. Sison (Editor), Gregory R. Beabout (Editor), Ignacio Ferrero (Editor)

Springer

Abstract

The aim of this chapter is to introduce a theory of the firm based on the concept of the common good consistent with the moral and political philosophy of John Finnis. Using Finnis’ philosophy, it will provide a description of the nature of the firm first as a community of cooperative work geared toward the satisfaction of needs. However, such an account of the firm can be further developed. In fact, using Finnis’ interpretation of Aquinas’ moral philosophy, one can see human work as a virtue. In addition, the development of productive and cooperative organizations must be oriented toward the satisfaction of needs and the promotion of friendly human relations. In this sense, following Finnis’ definition, the firm’s common good could be defined as a community of cooperation, of virtuous work, and of friendship.

In Business and Society 360 (Book 3): Business Ethics

David M. Wasieleski (Editor), James Weber (Editor)

Emerald

Abstract

The following chapter is aimed to explain what virtue ethics (VE) in business is, its philosophical background, its original themes, and new research opportunities. To this end, we will establish the distinctive elements of VE and its main sources and epistemological approaches. In particular, we will first describe VE in business based on Alasdair MacIntyre’s ethics and Modern VE in Business. Then, we will briefly show the Thomistic approach to VE in business and its main application to business theory. We will also consider a new epistemological proposal for VE in business in Positive Organizational Scholarship. Next, this chapter will explain briefly the original contributions VE in business makes to a theory of work and a common good theory of the firm. Finally, we will suggest new areas in which VE in business theory has not shown a significant outcome yet. Here, we will discuss new opportunities that VE authors might consider for research projects in new epistemological approaches, VE philosophers not yet studied in business ethics theory, spirituality-based theory (Jewish and Protestant mainly) and its connection with VE, and contemporary problems that firms are facing that can be enlightened from neo-Aristotelian philosophy.

Rodríguez-Lluesma, C; García-Ruiz, P; Pinto-Garay, J.

Business Ethics: European Review

2020

Abstract

A conversation about the current and potential effects of digital technologies on the nature of work is raging within scholarly and practitioner communities. Artificial intelligence, robotics, data analytics, digital platforms, and automation, among other technologies, are prompting a swift and profound transformation of work. Building on Pierpaolo Donati’s relational sociology, we examine the changes these technologies are likely to bring about in work as a human relation. Despite the very real threats of unemployment, job insecurity, precariousness, and surveillance, technology may also encourage the emergence of a work culture that shifts the scales toward a relational realm rather than a transactional one. To this end, we argue that work should be understood as a social relation with four dimensions: exchange value, intrinsic extra-economic purpose, communication for reciprocal services, and correspondence with primary human needs according to use values. Understanding the digital transformation of work from this point of view requires comprehending the differentiation and integration of these four dimensions.