The Impact on Religious Values on Business Ethics in the Chinese Context

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Stephan Rothlin

Abstract

China is showing impressive achievements in economic development, especially in the area of poverty alleviation. Yet a major challenge remains to humanize it and make it beneficial for the common good. This would be a role for religion. Religions in China are also experiencing an unprecedented growth in believers. And government officials are recognizing their value. However, religion remains a marginal and isolated phenomenon. Therefore the paper argues that the first duty of the various religions in China would consist in overcoming a narrow-minded focus on their own affairs and make an ecumenical, combined effort to address pressing social issues along with all people who are rooted in religious traditions. A especially valuable service in the Asian context would be if religions can reconnect people to their ethical roots. The religions would be in a unique position to assist the government in order to revive the tradition of Confucian secular ethics with a special focus of key values of trustworthiness, honesty, reliability and respect.

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Author Biography

Stephan Rothlin

University of International Business and Economics, Beijing, China