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Business Quote by Paul Hawken

“How much harm does a company have to do before we question its right to exist?” quote by Paul Hawken
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“How much harm does a company have to do before we question its right to exist?”

Paul Hawken

About This Quote

Source Book: The Ecology of Commerce, Paul Hawken, 1993

Companies must be examined for environmental and ethical impact before society accepts their existence.

In simple terms: Question a company's right to exist based on its harm.

Key Takeaway

Assess impact before acceptance.

Themes

ethics environment corporate responsibility

Mood

concerned critical

Type

philosophical questioning

When to use this quote

  • investment decisions
  • consumer choices
  • policy making
  • activism

Key Concepts

sustainability social license accountability

Questions to Reflect On

  • What criteria define a company's right to exist?
  • How can consumers influence corporate behavior?
A Different Perspective

Economic pressures may limit ability to hold powerful firms accountable.

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