516. What is the task of business management?

516. What is the task of business management? 

(Comp 516) Business managers are responsible for the economic and ecological effects of their operations. They must consider the good of persons and not only the increase of profits, even though profits are necessary to assure investments, the future of the business, employment, and the good progress of economic life.

“In brief”

(CCC 2451) The seventh commandment enjoins the practice of justice and charity in the administration of earthly goods and the fruits of men's labor. 

To deepen and explain

(CCC 2432) Those responsible for business enterprises are responsible to society for the economic and ecological effects of their operations (Cf. CA 37). They have an obligation to consider the good of persons and not only the increase of profits. Profits are necessary, however. They make possible the investments that ensure the future of a business and they guarantee employment. 

Reflection

(CCC 2415) The seventh commandment enjoins respect for the integrity of creation. Animals, like plants and inanimate beings, are by nature destined for the common good of past, present, and future humanity (Cf. Gen 128-31). Use of the mineral, vegetable, and animal resources of the universe cannot be divorced from respect for moral imperatives. Man's dominion over inanimate and other living beings granted by the Creator is not absolute; it is limited by concern for the quality of life of his neighbor, including generations to come; it requires a religious respect for the integrity of creation (Cf. CA 37-38).  

(Next question: What are the duties of workers?)