Nineteenth International Conference on Knowledge, Culture, and Change in Organizations

Abstract

Benjamin Franklin’s “Plan for Attaining Moral Perfection” puts into action his belief that virtuous behavior is the only path to success; in “The Way to Wealth,” he asserts there is “nothing so likely to make a man’s fortune as virtue.” Since organizations benefit from ethical and well-considered decisions at every level, Franklin’s plan offers a low-key, self-administered, self-improvement program that benefits both individuals and organizations.In 1726, the twenty-year-old Franklin developed “the bold and arduous project of arriving at moral perfection.” In 1791, he writes, “I soon found I had undertaken a task of more difficulty than I had imagined.” Franklin’s plan is not about strict adherence to rules or moral precepts; he emphasizes thoughtfulness, moderation, reflection, and a sense of humor, admitting that he never achieved true humility, only the appearance of it. Franklin’s “Plan” consists of 13 virtues, each with short descriptions; however, his list can be modified to suit the individual situation: Temperance, Silence, Order, Resolution, Frugality, Industry, Sincerity, Justice, Moderation, Cleanliness, Chastity, Tranquility, and Humility (“Imitate Jesus and Socrates”).