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TIMELINES OF CONTEMPORARY PHILOSOPHERS

  • Immanuel Kant (1724–1804)

    Immanuel Kant (1724–1804)

    Kant introduced Deontological Ethics, where actions are judged by whether they follow a rule or duty—not by their outcomes. His Categorical Imperative says we must treat others as ends, not mere means.
 🔗 Application to Business: Promotes principle-based decision-making, ethical leadership, and fair employee treatment regardless of profit outcomes.
  • John Stuart Mill (1806–1873)

    John Stuart Mill (1806–1873)

    Mill developed Utilitarianism, the belief that the best actions are those that maximize overall happiness or well-being.
 🔗 Application to Business: Used in CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility), policy-making, and marketing—helping leaders decide actions that benefit the majority while minimizing harm.
  • Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900)

    Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900)

    Nietzsche emphasized individual strength, the will to power, and questioned traditional moral values. He encouraged people to rise above conformity.
 🔗 Application to Business: Influences bold entrepreneurship, brand leadership, and innovative cultures that embrace disruption and personal vision.
  • Jean-Paul Sartre (1905–1980)

    Jean-Paul Sartre (1905–1980)

    Sartre’s Existentialism centers on personal freedom and responsibility. Humans create their own values through choices. 
🔗 Application to Business: Encourages self-accountability, authentic leadership, and empowering workers to find meaning in their roles.
  • Alasdair MacIntyre (1929–Present)

    Alasdair MacIntyre (1929–Present)

    MacIntyre revived Virtue Ethics, stressing moral character and community traditions over rigid rules. Good practices depend on good people.
 🔗 Application to Business: Stresses ethical leadership, strong organizational culture, and developing virtues like honesty, trust, and perseverance in the workplace.