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Instead of a bottom-line based on money and power, we need…

“Instead of a bottom-line based on money and power, we need a new bottom-line that defines productivity and creativity as where corporations, governments, schools, public institutions, and social practices are judged as efficient, rational and productive not only to the extent they maximize money…” quote by Michael Lerner
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“Instead of a bottom-line based on money and power, we need a new bottom-line that defines productivity and creativity as where corporations, governments, schools, public institutions, and social practices are judged as efficient, rational and productive not only to the extent they maximize money and power, but to the extent they maximize love and caring, ethical and ecological sensitivity, and our capacities to respond with awe and wonder at the grandeur of creation.”

Michael Lerner

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Productivity should be measured by love, ethics, ecology, and awe, not just profit or power.

In simple terms: Success includes love, ethics, and wonder.

Key Takeaway

Redefine success beyond money and power.

Themes

ethics environment creativity humanity

Mood

reflective optimistic

Type

philosophical practical

When to use this quote

  • corporate strategy
  • public policy
  • education reform
  • nonprofit management

Key Concepts

sustainable development values-based metrics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would a love‑centered metric look like?
  • How can organizations honor awe while staying viable?
A Different Perspective

Balancing love and awe with economic realities can be challenging.

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