Quakers, also known as the Religious Society of Friends, originated as a Christian religious movement in mid-17th-century England. They were founded by George Fox, who advocated a spiritual approach based on the belief that every person can communicate directly with God, without the need for religious intermediaries. This belief in the "inner light" of each individual led Quakers to promote values such as peace, justice, equality and truth.
The Quakers' commitment to these values has had a significant impact on their mode of governance and decision-making. In their meetings, they often favor consensus, where all voices are heard and decisions are made with the aim of reaching mutual agreement. This democratic and egalitarian approach has become a distinctive feature of Quakerism.
In the world of modern business and governance, Quaker principles have influenced approaches such as sociocracy, where collective decision-making and consensus are encouraged. More and more companies are seeking to integrate values of transparency, fairness and collaboration into their management practices, drawing inspiration from Quaker philosophy.
However, it's important to note that the application of these principles in the business context can vary considerably. Some take a more rigorous approach, while others simply seek to draw on Quaker values to create a more ethical and inclusive working environment. Ultimately, the way in which Quaker principles are integrated depends on the specific values and culture of each organization.
