DB2

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Liberty University *

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620

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Business

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Apr 30, 2024

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docx

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Running head: DISCUSSION BOARD 2 1 Discussion Board 2 School of Business, Liberty University Author Note I have no conflict of interest to disclose Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Lateshia Blakely. Email: "Why Business Matters to God" by Jeff Van Duzer is a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between business and faith, challenging common perceptions about the role of
DISCUSSION BOARD 2 2 business in society and its relationship with Christian values. He offers a fresh perspective on how businesses can be a force for good in the world while remaining faithful to biblical principles. He examines the biblical narrative that God’s intention for human flourishing is the abundance of economic activity by creating things that are meaningful. Van Duzer offered two mission statements that he believed God would adopt for businesses. The first is, “to create opportunities for individuals to express aspects of their God- given identity in meaningful, creative work” (Van Duzer, 2012). This statement speaks of the profound connection between human identity and intrinsic value for employees. Businesses can play a vital role in enabling individuals to express their gifts and contribute to the flourishing of society, fulfilling God’s intention. The second mission statement says, “to produce goods and services that enable the community to flourish” (Van Duzer, 2012). This statement summarizes the responsibility of businesses to contribute positively to the well-being of the community. By producing goods and services that enhance the quality of life and promote societal flourishing, businesses align with a divine mission to serve others. It highlights the interconnectedness between economic activity and the common good, suggesting that businesses can play a pivotal role in fostering thriving communities through their products and services. In conclusion, I believe Van Duzer’s theory is well-intentioned. Although his idea of the role of business is very much aligned with the purpose of service to others, he still speaks to the fact that overall profit is necessary to carry out these deeds to society. His idea is direct opposition to what Milton Friedman believed. One thing that they do have in common is the belief that companies should operate ethically. Friedman says, “the basic mission of business is to produce goods and services at a profit, and in doing this, business is making its maximum contribution to society and, in fact, being socially responsible” (Elrick et al., 2018). Whether one believes that a business’s role is to make money for stockholders or service to the community, the means to the end goal is the same, profit. References Center for Faith & Work. (2012, May 18). Jeff Van Duzer - Why Business Matters to God . YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h3m0q2d8Dq4 Elrick, J., Thies, C. F., & Lindsey, E. R. (2018). The social responsibility of business milton friedman reconsidered. The Journal of Markets & Morality, 21(2), 297.
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