Indigenous Business Philosophy

Indigenous business and leadership are most often practiced in capitalist systems where values of private capital accumulation reign. Whilst more socially focused business strategies are gaining popularity, businesses still operate for a primary profit motive because of the dominant operating environment. This subject explores a wide spectrum of business ethics issues in the context of Indigenous culture and philosophy, and factors that should be considered in addressing the central tension for Indigenous business and leadership that being profit vs purpose. Drawing upon Native and Indigenous philosophies and values, students will investigate, discuss, and present culturally based solutions and methods that Indigenous-managed businesses and organizations can anticipate and plan for future ethical problems.