City can lead the way as a force of good

IS it time for a radical shift in thinking about business and ethics?

Can we move to a new form of “ethical capitalism”, where the people benefit from the powers of markets and where opportunity is more open and people have real chances to improve their lot in life?

We need true moral purpose to overcome the deep rifts in society we face. It is time to reinforce the “cornerstones” of belonging – family, workplace, city, region and nation and rebuild the “ethics of community” which for too long have been overlooked in our excessive worship of “global market forces”.

Divisions within our society have become too great. We need new practical and pragmatic thinking, and an ethical state based on a sense of shared identity, obligation and reciprocity.

Maybe Bristol can lead the way on this and develop the idea of an “ethical city region”, where opportunity is truly open to all.

Great firms will need a sense of purpose which goes beyond simply existing to make money.

If Bristol can foster this attitude and develop the ethical and entrepreneurial spirit, we can do great things for the benefit of all.

Any party which can truly address this stands to do very well for the future. And we can all do our bit to promote civic values and virtues in how we behave. A civilised city is a prosperous city! Mark Harper

Bristol