An Innovative Approach to Cultivate Responsible Next Generation Leaders

Abstract

The next generation of business leaders aspires to integrate financial success with social and environmental responsibility. A fundamental enabler of more enlightened business practice is a change of consciousness toward the compassion, comprehension, and courage needed to conduct business in a way that leads to sustainability and thriving. This chapter presents the system of Consciousness-Based Education (CBE), which incorporates the Transcendental Meditation program. CBE as practiced at Maharishi University of Management is an innovative approach of management education which integrates experiential, intellectual, pedagogical, and environmental features all aimed at developing students toward enlightened consciousness. Empirical evidence on the effects of this educational approach includes cognitive, moral, and emotional development and brain integration. This growth of consciousness gives rise to responsible business leadership to create shared value that integrates the interests of shareholders and stakeholders.