From Optimisation to Transformation - My Path to the Well-spring of Rationality, Morality and Spirituality

Abstract

The author summarises his intellectual and personal journey from rationality and morality to spirituality. As internationally renowned expert in operation research and multi-objective optimisation, he developed a strong interest in organisational ethics, social and ethical accounting, values-based leadership and corporate social responsibility. Influenced by Eastern (especially Indian) spirituality he went further to explore the well-spring of rationality, morality and spirituality. In this way he broadened the perspective of business ethics by the conception of spiritual-based leadership, which addresses existential questions such as “Who am I?” “What is a good life for me and for others?” and “How best can I serve?” in organisational and everyday contexts.