During our first class someone raised the idea that it would be best to not do business with an unethical country in order to, basically, force that country to begin ethical practices. But a counter to that was also raised: do more business with such a country, for doing so would help that country rise above its ethical quagmire and move into better business practices and better lifestyles for its people.
That idea has been swirling in my mind ever since. Would this really be a way to help a country? Isn't that just like rewarding a person for bad behavior?
So, it was to my surprise that I learned just today that the Dalai Lama takes the latter position in dealings with China.
He is currently living in exile in northern India, and his culture - Tibetan culture - is dying at the hands of the Chinese government. Some people protest China and refuse to continue buying products with any relation to China due to these unfair dealings with the Tibetan people. However, the Dalai Lama believes that we should continue buying and supporting trade with China. He thinks that doing so will help place his people in a better light amongst the Chinese people; this will soften the Chinese to the Tibetans and eventually grant them the freedom they so earnestly seek.
I guess the Dalai Lama has some interesting ideas not only for the religious and spiritual world but also for the world of business.
New Question: When approaching an ethical question or difficulty, is it wise to reflect on spiritual advice to help you gain an answer?
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