Business and Leadership for Peace

Abstract

This chapter presents a review of the literature on business for peace to provide an evidence-based, in-depth analysis of the subject. This review suggests there is a gap in understanding the influence of leadership in business's commitment to advance peace. To address this gap, the constructs of ethical leadership are examined in an attempt to extend the discussion of business for peace by integrating leadership theory. The paradox of the role of business in advancing peace as both a conflict enabler and peace advocate is acknowledged with the recommendation that ethical leaders engage in inclusive problem solving through full spectrum thinking. The purpose of this chapter is to demonstrate that responsibility to promote business as a peace actor relies on ethical leaders who lead with moral courage. The chapter concludes with a case example of a business leader who exemplifies ethical leadership to promote peace through her entrepreneurial venture.