Professor Cristina Neesham, Newcastle University Business School

"Theories of Value for Sustainable Business Models"
Thursday, 07 November 2024. 14:00-15:30
Room 208, McIntyre Building

Abstract

Theories of sustainable business models (SBMs) use "value" as a core concept, without defining it. While traditional business models literature relies on concepts of value derived from economic theories, thus limiting their scope to economic value, this theoretical foundation is insufficient for SBMs. The latter have been distinguished from traditional business models in two respects: 1) SBMs are designed to create multiple types of value, beyond economic, e.g. social environmental, human, cultural, etc. (open list); 2) Value created by SBMs is directed to multiple and diverse stakeholders of the firm, not only shareholders and customers (e.g. employees, suppliers, local communities, government/the state, the media, interest groups, the natural environment, future generations). This expansion of the concepts of 'business model' and 'value' calls for new theories of value to support theories of SBM. This study evaluates critically the potential of philosophical phenomenology (Merleau-Ponty) and philosophical anthropology (Graeber) for providing an adequate foundation for defining value and explaining value creation in SBMs.

Bio

Dr Cristina Neesham (BABuch PhdMelb) is a social philosopher and business ethicist who applies corporate social responsibility and environmental sustainability to business strategy. She is Professor of Business Ethics and Sustainability and Associate Dean Ethics-Responsibility-Sustainability (ERS) at Newcastle University Business School, UK. Cristina's research focuses on value in sustainable business models, systemic responsibilities of global corporations for climate action, and the role of responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI) innovation in achieving global sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Her work has been published in leading international journals such as Business Ethics Quarterly, Journal of Business Ethics, Business and Society, Accounting Auditing and Accountability Journal, and International Journal of Human Resource Management. Cristina is recipient of the Social Issues in Management Leadership Award (Academy of Management), Associate Editor for the Business Ethics, Environment and Responsibility journal, and Co-Editor-in-Chief of the Philosophy of Management journal.

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First published: 21 October 2024

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