In today’s corporate landscape, the convergence of business and progressive politics, known as “woke capitalism,” challenges traditional business values and the neutrality of commerce. At Troy University’s Manuel H. Johnson Center for Political Economy, the Free Enterprise Scholars program emerges as a response to this trend, aiming to educate future business leaders on the virtues of commerce and the morality of honest profit.
Challenging Woke Capitalism
Historically, corporations focused on delivering goods and services without engaging in divisive political stances. However, contemporary pressures—from employees advocating for political causes to CEOs embracing progressive agendas—have reshaped corporate behavior. This shift often leads to internal discord and risks alienating stakeholders who prioritize business over politics.
Philosophical Foundations of Business
The program draws on philosophical insights to highlight the inherent cooperation fostered by commerce. Unlike ideologies that divide society, commerce facilitates interactions where individuals of diverse backgrounds collaborate harmoniously. Philosophers like Voltaire and Montesquieu emphasized how markets transcend cultural and religious differences, promoting mutual respect and economic prosperity.
Moral Clarity in Business
Critics argue that corporate wokeness often serves opportunistic ends rather than genuine social justice. The Johnson Center underscores the moral clarity of honorable business practices, rejecting notions that businesses must “give back” as if they’ve taken unfairly. Instead, they emphasize that businesses, conducted ethically, create both material wealth and moral value.
Educating Future Leaders
The Free Enterprise Scholars program intends to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of these principles. Through curated readings and discussions with thought leaders like Vivek Ramaswamy and James Otteson, students will explore the ethics of commerce and the pitfalls of embracing corporate wokeness. The program plans to expand into a multi-year curriculum with internships that align with these principles, ensuring that all business majors at Sorrell College benefit from this foundational education.
Vision for the Future
By nurturing a cadre of Free Enterprise Scholars, Troy University aims to cultivate future leaders who embody and advocate for the principles of free-market commerce. These scholars will serve as role models within their industries, promoting ethical business practices and safeguarding the integrity of commerce against ideological pressures.
Conclusion
As businesses navigate increasingly politicized landscapes, initiatives like the Free Enterprise Scholars program at Troy University play a crucial role in preserving the virtues of commerce. By educating and empowering tomorrow’s business leaders, Troy University seeks to uphold the dignity and ethical foundations of free enterprise in the face of prevailing societal and corporate pressures.
