Targets
In view of the enormous worldwide challenges we face such as poverty, migration, terrorism, global warming, ecological degradation and rapid population growth in poor countries, humanity’s very survival has come to depend on the development and application of all-inclusive ethics.
Dynamic ethics position
Since implementation is by far the most critical element in any ethics discourse, the Lassalle-Institut has, over the years, developed a dynamic ethics position rather than any static definition of ethics.
«Ethics means cultivating values based on the following experience: All life is inter-connected and inter-dependent. Ethical conduct includes
- mindful awareness of life in all its forms
- wise judgements
- sustainable actions
Ethical decisions serve the welfare of the national and global community, the earth and the cosmos. They are brought about in dialogue, do justice to the situation at hand and are compatible with foreseeable future developments.»
Comprehensive research plan
The Lassalle-Institut has created a comprehensive research plan to study and foster the development of ethical notions and behavior in the various sectors of Swiss society. Studies are conducted in a three to four-year rhythm in the fields of business, politics, healthcare and education in Switzerland. The results are published highlighting insights gained and need for action, and ethical debate is fostered in the relevant circles.
The first study of this kind was conducted by the Lassalle-Institut in spring 2001 and published under the heading «Ethik 2002 - Ethik-Bilanz in der Schweizer Wirtschaft» (ethics balance sheet in Swiss business) in December 2001. «Ethik 2006», published in February 2006 by NZZ Libro, Verlag Neue Zürcher Zeitung, draws up an ethics balance sheet for the world of Swiss politics.