Nature is Prior to Us: Applying Catholic Social Thought and Anabaptist-Mennonite Theology to the Ethics of Stakeholder Prioritization for the Natural Environment

Authors

Cathy A. Driscoll, Saint Mary's UniversityFollow
Elden Wiebe, The Kings University CollegeFollow
Bruno Dyck, University of ManitobaFollow

Keywords

stakeholder, Catholic social thought, Anabaptist–Mennonite theology, natural environment, sustainability, relationships

Abstract

We develop a spiritual and ethical based understanding of stakeholder theory that treats the natural environment as a primary stakeholder. We consider how Catholic social thought and Anabaptist-Mennonite theology can be seen as important resources for stakeholder thought and management, especially as they pertain to the natural environment as a primary stakeholder. We provide a discussion and implications for academics and practitioners in terms of dignifying both ecology and humanity, and creating solidarity between them. We also discuss how managers can become more attuned to the environment as a primary stakeholder through the development of relationships with the land and communities.

Recommended Citation

Driscoll, Cathy A.; Wiebe, Elden; and Dyck, Bruno (2012) "Nature is Prior to Us: Applying Catholic Social Thought and Anabaptist-Mennonite Theology to the Ethics of Stakeholder Prioritization for the Natural Environment," Journal of Religion and Business Ethics: Vol. 3, Article 3.
Available at: https://via.library.depaul.edu/jrbe/vol3/iss1/3