conflict between maximising profits and protecting user privacy. The study of philosophy and ethics can provide a decision-making framework that considers both utilitarian and deontological (ie the nature of duty and rule-following) perspectives, ensuring that leaders are equipped to handle complex ethical challenges without compromising their core values. Real-world examples show the profound impact of ethical leadership. Leaders like JRD Tata demonstrated how business decisions could be guided by principles of fairness and social responsibility, setting a benchmark for ethical conduct in the corporate world. Similarly, Mahatma Gandhi’s leadership was deeply rooted in principles of non‑violence and truth, inspiring generations to uphold moral integrity in their personal and professional lives. Incorporating ethical leadership training in educational institutions, particularly within business and management programmes, can significantly influence the next generation of leaders. Courses that combine management principles with ethics, cultural studies and social justice not only prepare students for the corporate world but also for responsible citizenship. Institutions such as IIM Indore have already pioneered integrative programmes of this kind, emphasising both strategic thinking and ethical leadership, thereby setting a model for other educational institutions to follow. In our rapidly evolving world, where AI, data analytics and automation are reshaping industries, the role of ethical leadership becomes even more critical. Leaders must ask themselves not only “Can we?”, but also “Should we?” when implementing new technologies. The humanities provide the ethical lens necessary to navigate such questions thoughtfully and responsibly, ensuring that technological advancement is balanced with ethical stewardship. It is time to ask ourselves: are we educating students to merely construct machines, or to thoughtfully consider the broader implications of those machines on society? Globally, a widening gap is emerging between STEM and the humanities. In the UK, for instance, fewer students are choosing humanities subjects such as history, literature and philosophy. Between 2021 and 2022, only 38 per cent of students pursued at least one humanities subject at A level, a significant decline from more than 50 per cent a few years earlier. Simultaneously, the number of students focusing solely on STEM subjects doubled from seven per cent in 2014 to 14 per cent between 2021-22. A similar trend
is evident in the US, where the American Academy of Arts and Sciences reported that in 2022, only 8.8 per cent of bachelor’s degrees awarded were in the humanities, compared to 38 per cent in sciences and 18.8 per cent in business. The humanities offer more than just historical or literary knowledge; they equip individuals with the capacity for critical thinking, ethical reasoning and empathy. These skills are essential in making well-rounded decisions that consider the broader social, cultural and ethical implications. For instance, while a software engineer may have the technical expertise to develop AI systems, it is their background in philosophy or ethics that prompts them to question the societal impact of their creations. They must enquire if these systems are perpetuating biases and respecting privacy, as well as whether they are inclusive in design. Critical thinking & cultural awareness While technical skills undeniably lead to lucrative career opportunities, neglecting the humanities is a strategic misstep. The humanities encourage us to ask profound questions about life, justice, identity and purpose. They foster critical thinking, ethical reasoning and cultural awareness, all indispensable in an increasingly interconnected and complex world. For instance, literature courses expose students to diverse narratives and broaden their perspectives. This is particularly valuable in a globalised world, where businesses operate across cultural boundaries. Understanding cultural contexts and communication nuances can be the difference between a successful negotiation and a failed one. Historical studies, too, are rich with lessons that transcend time. From the rise and fall of civilisations to the consequences of ethical breaches, history provides insights into how human behaviour shapes societal outcomes. By analysing historical events, students learn to assess the potential consequences of current actions, cultivating foresight and strategic thinking.
14 Business Impact • ISSUE 4 • 2025
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