Higher education is heavily focused on STEM subjects, driven by technology and industry demands for technical skills. Yet, as AI streamlines tasks, our unique human capacity for creativity, innovation and ethical decision-making becomes ever-more paramount, as IIM Indore’s Himanshu Rai elaborates In the interests of humanity T he educational landscape is undergoing a profound transformation. With technological advancements, there has been a surge in the emphasis on science, technology, engineering and crucial role in fostering ethical leadership by grounding individuals in moral philosophy, ethics and critical thinking. Studying classical works such as Aristotle’s highly influential Nicomachean Ethics or Confucius’ legendary teachings provides a framework for ethical leadership by emphasising virtues such as honesty, courage and justice. An ethical leader is not merely concerned with achieving targets, but also with ensuring that the means to those ends align with ethical principles. The humanities equip leaders with the tools to reflect on the consequences of their actions,
mathematics (STEM) disciplines. This shift, driven by educational systems and industry demands, has amplified the need for technical skills in a world increasingly dominated by digital and automated processes. While artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning streamline repetitive tasks, allowing humans more time to focus on creativity and innovation, a vital component of education – the humanities – risks being sidelined. Higher education institutions are increasingly focused on producing a new generation of coders, engineers and tech professionals, as the perceived value of STEM disciplines continues to rise. STEM fields undeniably drive economic growth, create jobs and enhance quality of life through technological advancements. However, as technical education receives unprecedented attention, subjects such as philosophy, history, literature and the arts are being neglected. Yet, these disciplines cultivate the ability to make thoughtful, ethical and creative decisions. Ethical leadership stands as a vital component in shaping conscientious leaders who prioritise integrity, fairness and responsibility in their decision-making processes. Humanities play a
considering not only the financial impact but also the societal, environmental and moral implications. In a world where business decisions can significantly affect communities and the environment, such ethical grounding is invaluable. The humanities & ethical leadership Incorporating humanities into leadership training helps in cultivating empathy, which is a cornerstone of ethical leadership. Literature, for example, immerses readers in diverse human experiences, enabling them to view situations from multiple perspectives. This practice of perspective-taking enhances a leader’s ability to understand the needs, concerns and values of their stakeholders, fostering more inclusive and compassionate decision-making. Furthermore, ethical leadership involves navigating dilemmas where competing values may be at stake. For instance, a tech executive may face a
12 Business Impact • ISSUE 4 • 2025
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