1.

INTRODUCTION

The importance of understanding human nature for managers and executives is emphasized, as their
decisions are influenced by their views on human behavior.

The limitations of the neoclassical economic model of human beings are discussed, highlighting the need
for a more nuanced and realistic understanding of human nature in management education.

Empirical studies suggest that business and economics students, who are often exposed to the economic
model, exhibit certain negative behaviors such as free-riding, seeking less cooperative solutions, and
accepting bribes.

The potential problems arise when management and economic theories go beyond explanation and
prediction and provide prescriptive advice based on an incomplete and inaccurate model of human
nature.

Agency theory, grounded in the economic model, is mentioned as an example where self-serving
behavior is assumed, leading to control mechanisms that can actually create self-fulfilling prophecies.

The need for consistency in teaching across different courses in a business school is emphasized, with a
common conception of human nature providing a foundation for all courses.

The Lagos Business School is mentioned as being based on a Christian conception of human beings,
which recognizes a spiritual dimension in individuals.

It is clarified that the Christian conception is not exclusive to Christians and can be shared by those who
recognize the spiritual aspect of humanity, irrespective of their religious beliefs.

The write-up acknowledges the influence of Christian teachings but presents arguments and reasons for
the assertions made, inviting readers to evaluate and accept what they find persuasive.

1. MAN AS A HIGHER ANIMAL

The major highlights of the chapter "Man as a Higher Animal" are as follows:

Introduction: The chapter begins by stating that to understand human beings, it is important to
recognize both their similarities and differences with plants and animals. Humans possess the
characteristic capacities of plants and animals, but they also have intellectual knowledge and intellectual
appetition, which set them apart.

Instincts, senses, and emotions: The chapter discusses the concept of instincts and how they determine
much of the behavior of animals. Instincts are innate, stable, and automatic tendencies to act in a
certain way. Animals become aware of their environment through their senses, which include hearing,
sight, smell, touch, and taste. Animals also experience appetitive responses to sensory stimuli, which are
similar to emotions in human beings.
Animal behavior: This section provides a summary of the main characteristics of animal behavior.
Hormones play a significant role in regulating emotions and directing animal behavior. Animal behavior
is shaped by evolution and the struggle for survival. Animals possess mechanisms to adapt their
behavior to their environment. Behavior that produces satisfying consequences tends to be reinforced,
while behavior that produces unpleasant experiences is weakened. Animal behavior is often purely
mechanical and determined by instincts and external stimuli.

The impact of emotions on human behavior: Emotions have a powerful influence on human behavior,
and they often lead individuals to act in non-rational or irrational ways. Emotions play a significant role
in decision-making and can override rational considerations. Understanding the role of emotions is
crucial for managers, as it affects how people behave in the workplace. Emotion-related traits are as
important as intelligence in determining professional success. Developing emotional intelligence is
essential for a successful life.

Overall, the chapter explores the similarities and differences between humans and animals in terms of
their capacities, behaviors, and the impact of emotions. It emphasizes the importance of understanding
and managing emotions in human behavior and decision-making.

3. MAN AS A RATIONAL BEING: INTELLIGENCE AND WILL

The major highlights of Chapter 3, "Man as a Rational Being: Intelligence and Will," can be summarized
as follows:

Introduction:

Humans possess both sentient (similar to other animals) and intelligent nature, with freedom of choice
as a distinct feature.
Human intelligence allows for the formation of conceptions beyond sensory perception and the ability
to be attracted or repelled by realities known to the intellect.
Intellectual Knowledge:

Humans can identify constant properties in objects and possess abstract knowledge, independent of
specific examples or images.
Abstract thinking enables humans to understand concepts beyond their ability to imagine.
The Will:

The will is an intellectual appetite that follows rational cognition, attracting or repelling individuals based
on their understanding of what is good or bad for them.
The will differs from emotional reactions by relating to abstract realities, exhibiting general qualities, and
having unlimited desires.
While emotions are automatic, humans can exercise control over their choices, though it may come at a
cost.
The will plays a significant role in attitudes such as love, commitment, and disapproval.
Consequences for Managers:
Managers need to understand the unique characteristics of human intelligence to effectively manage
human beings.
Motivating humans requires providing reasons and helping them see the purpose of their actions, even
if the reasons are not strictly selfish.
Managing free human beings is different from training animals; human intellectual powers make them
more challenging to control or predict.
Human beings can be motivated by ideas rather than just rewards and punishments.
Understanding human rationality is crucial for maximizing human potential and productivity.
Sustained action and commitment arise from free choice, not just emotional motivation.
Human behavior is not fully determined by cultural norms; individuals can assess costs and benefits and
deviate from prevailing norms if they deem it worthwhile.
These highlights emphasize the importance of recognizing human intelligence, freedom of choice, and
the need for effective management based on rationality and motivation.

4. THE UNITY OF THE HUMAN PERSON

The major highlights of Chapter 4, titled "The Unity of the Human Person," are as follows:

A. Complexity and unity of human nature:

Humans possess emotions similar to those of animals, such as disgust, fear, anger, pleasure, and
sadness. However, humans also experience uniquely human emotions like love, joy, hope, and despair.
Humans have powers of understanding and choice that animals do not possess, indicating a spiritual
nature.
Humans perceive themselves as single beings, with a unified sense of agency.
The integration of the mental (spiritual) and physical aspects of humans is especially apparent in the
realm of emotions. Emotions can be influenced by beliefs, values, and intellectual causes, and they
manifest not only in the mind but also in physiological responses.
B. Managing our complex nature:

Intelligence should play the ultimate directive role in human lives, as it can comprehend the full range of
human possibilities and ways of achieving fulfillment. Emotions, on the other hand, are selective and
often focused on short-term benefits rather than long-term consequences.
Humans have various emotions that may pull them in different directions. Achieving unity and harmony
within oneself requires shaping emotions in accordance with intelligence.
Human emotions, shaped by evolution, may provoke behaviors that are not optimal in current
conditions. Thus, intelligence should guide and educate emotions to align with present circumstances.
C. Sexuality:

Human sexuality is not solely anatomical or biological; it influences the entire personality and all
dimensions of a person.
Differences between men and women are typically a matter of intensity and predominance rather than
the presence or absence of certain traits.
Generally, women tend to be more affective, emotional, intuitive, and detail-oriented, while men tend
to have more abstract and discursive intelligence.
These differences are linked to the roles of men and women in conceiving, raising, and nurturing
children.
Organizations and teams composed of both men and women can be expected to function better due to
their diverse strengths under most circumstances.
These highlights emphasize the complex and unified nature of human beings, the importance of
intelligence in guiding emotions, and the influence of sexuality on human identity and psychology.

4. MAN’S FREEDOM
The major highlights of Chapter 5, titled "Man's Freedom," include:

A. The concept of free choice:

The chapter starts by discussing theories of motivation that assume decisions are determined by
external or internal factors, neglecting human beings' power of free choice.
Freedom of choice is defined as the ability to choose between several alternatives, with the choice itself
determining the outcome.
B. The reality of free choice:

It is argued that human beings have the power of free choice, which can be observed in simple decisions
and more complex choices involving different benefits and burdens.
Arguments against free choice are deemed self-defeating since they rely on appealing to reason, which
makes no sense if free choice doesn't exist.
While external factors may limit the possibilities available to individuals, they do not determine the
choices made within those limits.
C. Men are free because they are intelligent:

Human behavior is contrasted with animal behavior, which is primarily driven by instincts and emotions.
Humans, in addition to instincts and emotions, possess abstract knowledge and can be moved by ideas
and ideals, allowing them to act against strong impulses.
D. Man is shaped by his choices:

The importance of free choice is highlighted in shaping one's character and values.
Values are not chosen but come about as a result of day-to-day choices, and each choice settles the
relative priority of values for oneself.
E. Freedom "from" and freedom "for":

Two types of freedom are distinguished: freedom from constraints and freedom for excellence and
fulfillment as a human being.
The emphasis is placed on acquiring and expanding freedom for, which requires effort and may involve
unpleasant or challenging experiences.
F. Freedom and commitment:

Making choices implies constraints on freedom, but it is through choices and commitments that
freedom becomes effective.
Effective freedom is the ability to freely choose commitments and persevere in them despite difficulties
and emotions.
G. Freedom and truth:

Freedom should not be used to justify a lack of concern for truth and pursuing destructive actions.
The exercise of freedom should be coupled with a serious effort to discover what truly leads to
fulfillment and gain self-mastery in pursuing those goals.
These highlights provide an overview of the key concepts and arguments discussed in Chapter 5, "Man's
Freedom."

5. MAN AS A SOCIAL BEING

The major highlights of the chapter titled "Men are social beings" are as follows:

The model of human beings used by many economists, which assumes individuals as radical
individualists driven by self-interest, is inadequate for professional managers who deal with real human
beings. Humans are social beings who can only survive, develop, and find fulfillment by living in society
and cooperating with others.

Developing close interpersonal relationships is crucial for human fulfillment. Humans need others not
only for what they receive but also because personal growth is dependent on the needs of the people
around them. Close relationships contribute to meaning, enjoyment, and overall well-being.

Love in close relationships is based on identification, where what benefits or harms the other person is
perceived as benefiting or harming oneself. Love extends beyond immediate relationships to include
extended family, community, and even humanity as a whole.

Personal decisions, including professional decisions, shape one's capacity to love others. Egoistic
decisions that disregard the interests of others contribute to shaping a selfish person, while decisions
that consider the well-being of others contribute to personal growth and fulfillment.

Communities play a vital role in human development and fulfillment. A community is a group of people
committed to common objectives, where each individual feels a sense of commitment and obligation
towards others. Strong communities provide psychological and social support, enabling individuals to
make free decisions and sustain their beliefs and values.

Business organizations can function as communities, although not all organizations are true
communities. Designing businesses as communities, where employees and shareholders consider the
interests of others, can contribute to individual fulfillment, especially as other forms of community (such
as family and local community) are weakening.

It is important to recognize and value man's social nature, as independence should not be considered
the highest objective. Ignoring the social nature of individuals and focusing solely on individual
rationality is a serious mistake, particularly in management.

Human beings have a basic sense of fairness, and the understanding of this sense of fairness is crucial in
the practice of management. Most people prefer a more equal outcome that is considered fair, even if it
means receiving less, indicating that humans are naturally inclined towards fairness.
The choice of organization to work for is an important decision for professionals. The values, standards,
and attitudes of individuals are influenced by their work communities. Ethical standards and the
encouragement of ethical discussions within organizations shape the ethical behavior of professionals.

These highlights emphasize the importance of social relationships, community involvement, and ethical
considerations in achieving human fulfillment and effective management.

7. MAN’S FULFILLMENT
The major highlights of the chapter "Introduction" are as follows:

The complexity of living a fulfilled life: The chapter acknowledges that living a fulfilled life is a complex
issue, and numerous books have been written on the subject.

The need for planning and long-term thinking: Merely doing what one likes or enjoys in the present
moment is not sufficient. It is important to consider the future and the long-term consequences of one's
actions.

Distinction between extrinsic and intrinsic goods: Extrinsic goods, such as money, power, status,
security, ease, and liberty, are described as things that come from outside. In contrast, intrinsic goods
are aspects of well-being and fulfillment.

Characteristics of extrinsic goods: Extrinsic goods solve problems but do not inherently bring happiness
or fulfillment. They are valuable as means to obtain or protect intrinsic goods. Extrinsic goods also
involve competition with others.

Types of intrinsic goods: The chapter provides a list of basic types of intrinsic goods, including
knowledge, life (including health and vitality), play, aesthetic experience, harmony with other people,
intelligent control of one's life, and religion.

Nature of intrinsic goods: Intrinsic goods are not objects to be obtained but aspects of fulfillment. They
require personal effort and cannot be simply acquired or bought. In pursuing intrinsic goods, there is no
competition with others.

The "formula" of fulfillment and happiness: While there is no easy formula for happiness, two principles
are suggested. First, one should focus on attaining intrinsic goods rather than being solely driven by
extrinsic goods. Second, one should not restrict concerns only to oneself but also consider the well-
being and fulfillment of others.

Implications for business managers: The chapter emphasizes that being a good business manager
requires focusing on intrinsic goods and creating value for customers, employees, and investors. It is not
merely about personal interests such as salary, promotion, or reputation.

Overall, the chapter sets the stage for exploring the concepts of extrinsic and intrinsic goods and
highlights the importance of pursuing intrinsic goods for a fulfilled life. It also emphasizes the
significance of considering the impact on others and creating value in professional decision-making,
particularly for business managers.
 7. MAN’S DEVELOPMENT: THE VIRTUES

Chapter 8 of the book discusses "Man's Development: The Virtues" and highlights the importance of
virtues in shaping a person's values, emotional predispositions, and overall fulfillment. Here are the
major highlights from the chapter:

A. The Four Main Virtues:

Prudence or practical wisdom: The capacity to make right decisions by avoiding rashness, indecision, and
superficiality.
Justice: The steady disposition to give each person their due, including respecting the rights of others
and being attentive to fair entitlements.
Fortitude: The capacity to overcome fear, hardships, danger, and contradictions, and persist in pursuing
goals despite obstacles.
Temperance or self-control: The ability to keep mastery over natural tendencies for immediate pleasure
and satisfaction, such as eating, drinking, rest, anger, comfort, and sexual instinct.
B. Acquiring and Developing Virtues:

Improvement of emotional dispositions: Through effort and perseverance, one can improve their
emotional dispositions and develop virtues.
Balancing temperamental traits: Temperament helpful for some virtues may hinder others, and
everyone needs to work on their temperament to develop the right character and personality.
Values over emotions: The right values are more important than the right emotions to produce virtuous
behavior.
C. The Virtues in Management:

Development of managers: Developing managers is not solely about acquiring knowledge and skills but
also expanding their fundamental capacities through acquiring and deepening virtues.
Four fundamental virtues as competencies: The four essential virtues—prudence, justice, fortitude, and
temperance—form the core competencies of a good manager.
Importance of virtues in management practice:
Prudence: Awareness of biases, openness to advice, decisiveness, and going to the root of problems.
Justice: Fairness in appraising subordinates, fulfilling fiduciary duties, distributing rewards, and avoiding
rash judgments.
Fortitude: Facing the truth, perseverance, daring, magnanimity, and serenity in challenging situations.
Temperance: Maintaining an even temper, industriousness, organization, and working according to
plans.
D. Virtues and Business Ethics:

Virtues complementing duties and rules: Thinking in terms of virtues complements the conventional
approach of framing ethical issues in terms of duties and rules.
Focusing on excellence: Virtues emphasize striving for the highest level of excellence rather than just
meeting minimum standards.
Ethical decision-making: Decisions on ethical issues should not be based solely on short-term
consequences but on shaping one's character and strengthening virtues or defects.
By understanding and developing virtues, individuals can improve themselves, become better managers,
and contribute to the lives of employees, customers, and stakeholders according to their full potential.

9. MAN’S DIGNITY

Chapter 9, titled "Man's Dignity," highlights the importance of recognizing and understanding the value
and spiritual nature of human beings. Here are the major highlights from the chapter:

A. Introduction:

Emphasizes the need to have a good knowledge of human beings in order to effectively manage and
govern them.
Compares managing human beings to handling diamonds, where understanding their value is crucial.
B. Spiritual nature of human beings:

States that human beings are not just highly evolved animals but fundamentally different due to their
spiritual capacity.
Human intelligence allows for abstract understanding and free choices, which cannot be explained solely
by material factors.
Argues that true knowledge would be impossible in a purely material world.
C. Human beings are persons:

Defines personhood as having a rational nature, distinguishing humans, angels, and God from animals.
Summarizes the unique qualities of human persons, including their capacity for knowledge, freedom,
and pursuit of fulfillment.
Asserts that human beings possess a spiritual nature, making them superior to animals.
D. Practical consequences of the dignity of human persons:

Calls for treating human beings with consideration and respect, emphasizing that they should never be
used solely as means for achieving objectives.
Highlights the importance of respecting human freedom and allowing individuals to be the architects of
their own lives.
Discusses the foundation of basic equality among all people, despite differences in intelligence,
productivity, and other characteristics.
Stresses the significance of affirming and empowering individuals in leadership and governance.
These highlights underscore the significance of recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every
human being and the implications it holds for ethical management and interpersonal relationships..

10. CONCLUSIONS

The major highlight of Chapter 10, titled "Conclusions," is a summary of the general picture of human
nature that emerges from the course. The chapter emphasizes several key points:
Human beings are not purely rational agents. Emotions play a significant role in determining behavior
and must be taken into account when predicting actions or planning personal and professional
development. Developing the right emotions is crucial for personal and professional growth.

Although emotions are important, they do not control human beings entirely. Humans possess the
power of free choice, allowing them to act against strong emotions. Recognizing this power of free
choice is essential when dealing with individuals, and engaging it is crucial for true personal and
professional development.

The exercise of freedom shapes a person's character. By making intelligent choices and striving to
develop appropriate emotions, individuals acquire virtues that enable them to consistently act in the
right way, both personally and professionally. Conversely, wrong choices have a lasting impact on
character.

While humans are not purely rational, they possess intellectual cognition. Therefore, when leading
individuals, it is vital to provide them with reasons to act in certain ways.

There are strong reasons to believe that intelligence, rather than emotions or sentiments, should play
the ultimate guiding role in our lives.

Freedom empowers individuals to be the true authors of the good things they do. However, when
freedom is used to choose actions that are ugly, stupid, or destructive, it undermines both fulfillment
and freedom. Making independence and freedom from constraints the sole objective of life is
impoverishing and self-defeating.

Humans are social beings who thrive, develop, and find ultimate fulfillment through living in society,
cooperating with others, and building close interpersonal relationships. Belonging to supportive
communities is crucial.

To attain fulfillment, individuals should focus on aspects beyond purely extrinsic goods and avoid
restricting their concerns to narrow individual interests.

Human beings are not merely highly evolved animals. They are persons with a spiritual nature, endowed
with capacities of abstract knowledge and free choice that are superior to those of other animals. Each
human being possesses infinite value or dignity and should be treated with respect, never used solely as
a means to someone else's ends.

The chapter concludes that there are no guaranteed formulas or solutions for managing human beings
because they possess the power of free choice. Managers should not assume that all individuals fit into
a predetermined motivational model. Instead, it is more effective for managers to define the type of
people they want to associate with, make careful hiring choices, and create an environment that
encourages desired behavior. Ultimately, individuals are in control of their actions, and the choice is
theirs.