Jo,
A great question. I've thought a lot about it. Here's my answer:
First I believe that humans have enormous inherent potential. People also
have within themselves, the resources necessary to realize that potential.
An organization is an excellent way for humans to discover, express, and
explore that potential. I want to help create an organization that enables
such an actualizing environment.
Second by helping to create such an organization I am actualizing my own
potential. From that I get personal satisfaction. I also feel that such a
pursuit brings a tremendous amount of meaning to my life.
Third I can see no reason why an organization cannot stay in business as
long as humans exist. To have an impact on such an organization that is as
enduring as the human species is to leave to my posterity, as well as
those who will work in the organization, a wonderful legacy. Perhaps it is
a desire for some form of immortality -- and what better way than to leave
a legacy of ideas! Furthremore I think that helping create such an
organization will touch the lives of thousands of people: Those who will
work in the organization with me, and those who will work in the
organization long after I'm gone! It is, I think, both a transcendent way
of actualizing my potential, and expressing an appropirate form of
selflessness.
Fourth I believe that such an organization would have a positive impact on
society. To survive as long as I hope, the organization would have to
respond to numerous societal changes. And hopefully actually be the source
of creating meaningful and constructive change in our society.
Fifth I think all humans -- or, actually, all forms of life -- have within
them a generative desire -- the desire to create or to organize or to
achieve their own purposes. Being a part of an organization that wants to
endure as long as the human species, and which evokes in people their full
potential, satisfies, for me, that generative desire.
Sixth I think the way that many businesses function today is morally
reprehensible. I refuse to be a part of a business that demonstrates any
of the following attitudes or behaviors:
-- Views people as resources
-- Seeks nothing but economic growth
-- Is socially irresponsible
-- Is destructive to our natural environment
-- Is authoritarian in it's management philosophy and style
There is a hunger, a burning desire to be a part of such an organization.
It is now one of my purposes, a never-ending adventure.
-- Benjamin B. Compton bbc_mail@juno.comLearning-org -- An Internet Dialog on Learning Organizations For info: <rkarash@karash.com> -or- <http://world.std.com/~lo/>