The objective of this course is to explore the ’bigger story’ of business and politics, to examine the ‘why’ not just the ‘how’ of commerce and public life. As Socrates exhorted, “the unexamined life is not worth living.” In an age where time for reflection is rare and information overload is the norm, this course will dare to examine the deeper story. Focus will be given to the ‘the meaning’ side of both of these important sectors in hopes of rejecting the dangerous compartmentalization which frequently separates success from values and contribution.  When business and politics become detached from higher, better purposes and becomes lost in the murky waters of pragmatism and success at any price, bad things happen. Perspective is critical but hard to attain in the intensity of the daily struggle; yet perspective is what is required to stay grounded. “He who fixes his course to a star changes not,” urged Leonardo da Vinci.

In short, this course will seek to view business and politics through the lens of life purpose and meaning. Knowledge and practical lessons will be drawn from our readings, discussions, group presentations, historical models and face to face exposure to leaders wrestling with ways to live more integrated lives.