The fourth wave: the spiritually-based firm

Author(s): Conley, J.

Journal/Book: J Organ Change Manage. 1999; 12: 60/62 Toller Lane, Bradford Bd8 9by, W Yorkshire, England. Mcb Univ Press Ltd. 292-301.

Abstract: Alvin Toffler foretold the technological ''third wave': in 1980. We suggest that there is an organizational fourth wave, the spirituality-based firm. The movement toward spiritualizing the organization has apparently caught on and a number of highly diverse firms are attempting to instill a spiritual corporate culture. The intent of this paper is to explore basic attitudes and practices that appear to be essential for success in maintaining a spiritual corporate culture. Six key concepts have been selected based on our review of the literature, professional observations, and in-depth personal interviews with leaders of spiritually-based firms: honesty with self; articulation of the corporation's spiritually-based philosophy, mutual trust and honesty with others, commitment to quality and service commitment to employees, and selection of personnel to match the corporation's spiritually-based philosophy. As these key concepts are discussed specific examples of how these concepts are practiced within various firm are included.

Note: Article Wagner-Marsh F, Eastern Michigan Univ, Coll Business, Ypsilanti,MI 48197 USA

Keyword(s): belief; leadership; corporate culture

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