Is the pursuit of profits for its own sake is a fruitless endeavor? That appears to be the opinion of Whole Foods CEO John Mackey. However, to achieve profits in the pursuit of a higher purpose is what Mr. Mackey calls "conscious capitalism."
Speaking at Yale University earlier this week, Mr. Mackey said, "I want us to evolve from the profit focus to the purpose focus, from the short term to the long term."
Mr. Mackey, the Yale Daily News reported, sought to illustrate his point with a metaphor about happiness. People consumed with their own happiness tend to be self-centered and often fall short of their goal. On the other hand, those that pursue higher goals often find happiness in their quest.
"I've found that people who pursue happiness as a primary goal don't achieve it," he said, "that in fact happiness is a by-product of other things, such as having a purpose, service to others, excellence, personal growth, friendship, generosity, compassion, forgiveness, love. And if we pursue those virtues, then one day we may grow up and find that we are very happy."
Discussion Questions: What do you make of John Mackey's "conscious capitalism?" Do his philosophical views have application beyond a niche natural/organic foods retailer such as Whole Foods?