A Base For Business And Management Theology Religion Essay Example

analysis of Miller's 4 E model aims to investigate how employees' beliefs, values, attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors affect business and management decisions as these factors have a significant impact on their workplace.

Some scholars have overlooked the connection between faith and concern, while others argue that spiritual guidance profoundly influences human behavior, attitudes, and motives, particularly in the realm of business ethics and values, which ultimately affects the market. To elucidate this relationship, Miller's renowned theoretical model called the ITB (The Integration Box), developed in 2007, can be applied. This model explains how both men and women aspire to lead an integrated life where work and faith intertwine. Individuals now reject a fragmented existence where their religious beliefs are separate from their work life. However, many people seek a well-rounded and balanced life that harmonizes the mind, spirit, and body across all aspects, including work. This model suggests that individuals who seek an integrated life, regardless of religious affiliation, caste, creed, race, or civilization, tend to align with one of the four E's (Ethics, Expression, Experience, and Enrichment) mentioned in the ITB. The choice of which E to follow is typically driven by the individual's desire to meld work and faith together.

Furthermore, it is stated that everyone has a disposition towards the 4 E's as their primary outlook on life when it comes to the integration of work and religion. According to the ITB theory, the 4 E's are considered valid, and there is no judgment of one being better or worse than the others. Each outlook has its own set of good and bad characteristics. The diagram below provides definitions of the 4 E's along

with some motivations, which will help you better understand the relationship between religion and work.

Motivations of the 4 E's:

Ethics Type: Guides, compels, and motivates individuals to take morally driven actions regarding religion and spirituality. Expression Type: Through exercising freedom of expression, individuals persuade others to share their beliefs and adopt their perspective on religion.

Experience Type: They typically seek value and meaning in their work. Enrichment Type: The enrichment type helps them find comfort and motivation for work. It also assists in managing work pressure and challenges, as well as fostering personal growth and learning from work (Miller 2007). However, there is a critical aspect to the TIB theory that it encompasses various perspectives, be it spiritual or secular. The TIB theory can generally be applied to organizational environments irrespective of religious affiliations, whether it be an educational trust, a publicly listed company, privately owned business, or even a non-profit organization.

The TIB theory aims to increase individuals' awareness and respect for others in the workplace and their spiritual traditions. At an organizational level, the theory suggests that owners make changes to their organization in order to monitor certain patterns, maintain diversity and policy consistency, and provide guidance for managerial decisions (Miller 2007). Additionally, the TIB theory helps individuals and organizations understand the deep integration of work and religion, and provides a framework for managing and balancing religious values in the workplace. An objective assessment is necessary for both managers and employees to recognize and understand the valuable business proposals associated with work and religion, which underpin the 4 E's in the workplace. Recognizing the relationship between work and religion is crucial as it encompasses issues such

as business ethics, human rights, managerial leadership, and international business practices.

The 4 E's (ethnicity, education, experience, and expertise) and understanding work and religion can have various benefits for a business at a corporate level. These benefits include creating a more diverse organization, reducing discrimination and harassment in the workplace, and fostering increased respect for individuals from different cultures, religions, and worldviews. These factors have positive effects on business ethics, employee relationships, and employee recruitment (Miller 2007).

An analysis of how religion affects global business with a focus on Christianity and Islam:

We will further explore how religion influences both the global economy as well as individual country economies. In the past, some scholars did not give much importance to the role of religion in economic growth before 9/11 (Philpott 2002). However, recent studies by Pipa (2000) on globalization show that certain religious beliefs have influenced business practices within economically-driven systems. Some argue that globalization will result in foreign values prevailing over local values (Foreign Policy 2004).

Comparing the wealth of the Catholic Church and Saudi Royalty reveals that the former is considerably richer. Additionally, it should be acknowledged that the Catholic Church represents just one Christian denomination, as Hindus, Buddhists, Muslims, and Jews also contribute substantial sums to support their respective faiths. This emphasizes how faith plays a vital role in business ethics and social influence (Brown 2011). Now let's delve into the impact of these factors on global business by examining two major world religions and their adherence to the Ten Commandments.

Islam and business:

One-fifth of today's global population follows Islam, encompassing individuals engaged in various business ventures across 50 countries worldwide. Some of these individuals also possess

control over the world's energy resources (Jamaluddin 2003).

It is crucial for today's directors to possess an understanding of Islam, as stated by Jensen (1980, 13). This understanding serves not only to enhance their intellectual knowledge but also as a practical concern. A comprehension of the position of Islam within its historical and environmental context holds immense importance for various reasons. Firstly, there exists significant global interdependence economically, politically, and culturally between Muslim and non-Muslim countries. Consequently, this has resulted in collaborations in business between these nations (Pryor 1985, 222). Secondly, many Muslim countries serve as major suppliers of fossil fuels—an invaluable resource for Western countries. Moreover, several of these Muslim countries belong to the OPEC group and hold strategic significance for Western countries in terms of military planning. Additionally, the economic boom in oil flow during the 1970s led Arab and Islamic nations to experience a substantial increase in income—providing them with considerable cash reserves available for worldwide investments (Moore 1980, 93).

The economic consequences of understanding Islamic economics are significant in the universe. Therefore, it is important for directors to have knowledge of and comprehend Islamic economics in order to continue conducting business with them. Additionally, this text will examine how directors use ethical values and social responsibility, influenced by Islam, to conduct business. According to Almoharby (2011, 97), Muslims believe that business ethics can only be attained through complete faith in God. It is also evident from the Quran that Islam teaches social ethics and morals in the workplace, and provides solutions for common ethical issues.

According to Jaques (2003), business ethics involves demonstrating good values in corporate decision-making and understanding how these ideas can

impact stakeholders. Jaques (2003) suggests that business managers can incorporate ethical values into their daily management practices. On the other hand, Mittelstaedt (2002) argues that religion plays a role in shaping market behavior. Mittelstaedt (2002) believes that business ethics helps us understand the relationship between faith and markets. Baker (2007) defines corporate social responsibility (CSR) as a commitment to ethical behavior in business. According to Baker (2007), CSR contributes to economic development by improving the lives of employees, families, local communities, and society at large. In Islam, making money and conducting business should encompass social, economic, and spiritual aspects.

Therefore, I am traveling to discuss certain elements that help determine ethical standards from an Islamic perspective as derived from the Ten Commandments as drawn by Almoharby (2011). Halal (lawful) and Haram (prohibited): In business, they imply being honest, morally responsible, and truthful in their trade. Accountability: It covers all four aspects of business: economic, political, spiritual, and social. Social reactivity and responsibility: It encourages Muslims to exhibit good values and governance in daily life and to display social responsibility when interacting with society. Social power: It teaches Muslims to take care of each other and to look out for one another. Reward and penalty: Muslims are constantly reminded about Islamic teachings that every action is being monitored and they will be rewarded or punished depending on their ethical behavior or if they go against the ethical code of Islam.

Islam condemns fraudulent behavior, including cheating, as it contradicts foundational principles such as honesty, transparency, sincerity, and justice. In addition to prohibiting theft, lying, deception, and dishonesty. Islam also emphasizes the equal worth of all individuals regardless of

their caste, color or race. It underscores that a person with strong ethical values who is economically disadvantaged deserves more respect than a wealthy individual lacking moral and social values.

Based on the above information, it can be concluded that Islam addresses ethical issues and teaches good morals and ethical principles that are incorporated into business practices.

Christianity and business:

In addition to Islam's emphasis on ethics in business, Christianity is also recognized as a significant influencer of economic behavior. The Bible and the Ten Commandments have a profound impact on how the Christian faith, including the Catholic Church, interacts with its followers worldwide. This influence extends to approximately 60% of the global population. Johnson (1990) asserts that business plays a major role in this world created by God.

Delbecq (1999) states that Christianity greatly influences the leadership abilities of its adherents. Marr (2001) also mentions four principles from 'The Bible' that Christians incorporate in their work environment. The initial principle, known as 'The Golden Rule', stresses the significance of making fair and impartial decisions. The second principle encourages Christians to prioritize giving rather than receiving, aiming to cultivate goodwill and provide value to stakeholders. The third principle advocates for non-judgmental assessments instead of presuming or hastily reaching conclusions. The fourth principle emphasizes the importance of gathering facts and pursuing truth before making decisions. Ultimately, Christians are motivated to live a pure life, enhancing all aspects of their existence and enabling them to live fully.

When examining the relationship between Christianity and business, it becomes evident that the Ten Commandments have a significant impact on guiding behavior and perspective. These commandments are influential for individuals and organizations alike, particularly in

terms of ethical behavior and policymaking by management. The principles derived from the Ten Commandments have important implications for business practices, highlighting the significance of negotiation for problem resolution to foster strong relationships. By comprehending diverse needs and objectives, businesses can establish enduring partnerships.

Deals and contracts between individuals should only be terminated through mutual agreement, leading to transgressions and ultimately causing an unhealthy business culture. It is essential to establish trust and confidence among others, as it facilitates smoother business relationships. To ensure a harmonious work environment and the sustainability of a business, it is crucial to avoid conflicts between business and work, collaborate, and strive to understand one another (Ali and Gibbs 1998). These principles are derived from the Ten Commandments in the same order they are stated and hold true in the global business environment. The principles outlined in some of the Ten Commandments serve as guidelines for both individual and managerial behavior within an organization. Thus, businesses operating worldwide should genuinely adhere to the Ten Commandments.

Decision:

The Quran and the Bible have different focuses; the Quran mainly concerns spirituality while the Bible includes instructions for societal well-being. In Islam, all actions are carried out with Allah's involvement. Religion greatly impacts businesses worldwide, affecting market actions and economic development. For example, during Madeleine Albright's term as US secretary of state, an American Christian with Arabic heritage was removed from his position upon being hired by the state department.

Ms Laila Al-Marayati was nominated to serve on the White House's Commission on International Religious Freedom, but she was later removed due to opposition from her Muslim connections and her prejudiced speeches (Birnbaum 1999). It

is also important to mention the ethical failures in major business disasters such as Enron, WorldCom, Tyco, Adelphia, and Arthur Andersen. These catastrophes have drawn the attention of many who attribute them to a failure to adhere to good business ethics and morals. The discussion surrounding these business disasters has raised questions about the relationship between religion and managerial decisions and behaviors that were not followed, leading us to our final statement (Longenecke, McKinney, and Moore 2004). That religion provides a sufficient foundation for Business and Management.

Recommendations:

According to Nash and McLennan (2001), the tradition of separating faith and business has been explained multiple times. They argue that religion and business must always be kept separate, as applying religious regulations to business or business regulations to religion would result in negative consequences. Therefore, further research should be conducted to explore the relationship between faith and business, taking into account business ethics, social responsibility, and the relevance of religion. This journal article emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of whether faith is a sufficient foundation for business and management.

Would also like to mention a couple of quotes that support the points made in this article:

According to Johnson (1957), religious teachings are not the sole influencer of managerial practices and business decisions, but they can have a significant impact by providing a reference point for individual behavior and supporting better business decisions. Nash (2001) argues that business reflects various human emotions and motivations, many of which are directly or indirectly influenced by religious beliefs.