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Accepted Paper:

Corporate Moral Agency as the Ethical Basis of Organizational Group Capabilities  
Raphael Ng (HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management)

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Paper short abstract:

The paper explores the ethical foundation of organizational group capabilities, arguing for their intrinsic value beyond mere instrumental means. It delves into collective moral agency and its role in shaping organizational decisions, contributing to societal resilience and systemic change.

Paper long abstract:

The paper delves into the intricate relationship between organizational groups, their capabilities, and the ethical considerations surrounding their actions. It underscores the importance of recognizing organizational groups not merely as instrumental means but as entities with intrinsic value and moral agency. Drawing from debates within capabilities scholarship, the paper navigates discussions on whether group capabilities should be perceived solely as means to individual ends or possess intrinsic worth as ends in themselves. This exploration leads to an examination of the ethical foundation for valuing group capabilities, particularly within the context of formal organizational groups.

By considering formal organizational groups as units of moral concern, the paper argues for a shift in perspective towards viewing these groups as morally responsible entities. It highlights the unique role of organizational groups in influencing societal norms and fostering commitments, emphasizing their significance in societal resilience and transformation. The concept of group moral agency emerges as a central theme, with the paper elucidating how organizational groups possess the capacity to actively respond to moral demands and shape collective moral responsibilities.

Furthermore, the paper delves into the implications of group moral agency within the realm of corporate moral agency. It examines standard and contemporary approaches to corporate decision-making, shedding light on how organizational authority structures mediate individual motivations and actions. Through the lens of collective decision-making mechanisms, the paper explores alternative models of corporate agency grounded in joint intentionality, contributing to the broader discourse on collective capabilities.

Aligning closely with the conference theme of 'Crises, Capabilities, and Commitments,' the paper underscores the pivotal role of organizational groups in shaping the moral landscape and ensuring accountability, particularly during economic crises. It highlights the indispensable role of organizational entities in implementing economic policies, promoting sustainability practices, and fostering social transformations. Moreover, the paper resonates with specific conference topics such as recalibrating economic policies and promoting social solidarity through grassroots approaches.

In conclusion, the paper contributes valuable insights into the ethical basis of organizational group capabilities and their role in fostering cooperation, confronting systemic issues, and effecting systemic change. By emphasizing the significance of collective moral agency and organizational commitments, it offers a nuanced understanding of how organizational groups navigate ethical dilemmas and contribute to societal well-being.

Full abstract with citations: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TK4j86qpty4F6kFmKRmpXMj0gY16UmiLW41oCkL0sys/edit?usp=sharing

Thematic Panel T0116
Collective Capabilities as Catalysts for Human Development and Social Transformation in Times of Crisis