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Don Quixote and the Problem of Idealism and Realism in Business Ethics

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  • Klein, Sherwin

Abstract

I discuss the characters Don Quixote and Sancho Panza and their relationship in order to understand better the place of idealistic theory and realistic practice in business ethics. The realism of Sancho Panza is required to made the idealism of Don Quixote effective. Indeed, the interaction and development of these characters can serve as a model for both the effective communication between and blending of the idealistic moral theoretician and the practical businessperson. Specifically, I argue that a quixotified Sancho Panza, as a combination of theoretical idealism and practical realism, is necessary for managerial statesmanship. I first consider the position that this concept is unrealistic. In the final section, however, I show that a number of leadership and business theorists believe that managerial statesmanship requires a quixotified Sancho Panza. I also consider the question, what helps to make a quixotic vision for business ethical, and what is its content?

Suggested Citation

  • Klein, Sherwin, 1998. "Don Quixote and the Problem of Idealism and Realism in Business Ethics," Business Ethics Quarterly, Cambridge University Press, vol. 8(1), pages 43-63, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:cup:buetqu:v:8:y:1998:i:01:p:43-63_00
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    Cited by:

    1. John Dobson, 2007. "Aesthetics as a Foundation for Business Activity," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 72(1), pages 41-46, April.
    2. Steven Taylor & Donna Ladkin & Matt Statler, 2015. "Caring Orientations: The Normative Foundations of the Craft of Management," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 128(3), pages 575-584, May.
    3. John Dobson, 2010. "Aesthetic Style as a Postructural Business Ethic," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 93(3), pages 393-400, May.

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