Warren Buffet, Natural Law, and EQ
While Taboo in the Boardroom, Good Religion is Good Business
In today’s reading from Hebrews, St. Paul quotes from Jeremiah, an authority his audience would have been familiar with, to make his point: “I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them upon their minds” (Jeremiah 31:33). Paul returns to this idea repeatedly throughout his ministry, including in his letter to the Romans: “Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the law, they are a law for themselves, even though they do not have the law (Rom. 2:14-15)”. This is a strong message of a universal truth that speaks to what lies in the heart of every person, regardless of religious affiliation.
Whether organizational leaders have a religious affiliation or not, undeniable consistencies exist between the character traits of many revered business leaders and the common moral foundations of most faith traditions. In contemporary leadership discussions, this is referred to as self-awareness or emotional quotient (EQ), which includes traits like empathy, integrity, vulnerability, inclusiveness, transparency, and effective communication. These qualities are rarely directly associated with religion due to the taboo nature of discussing religion in most boardrooms. However, the parallels between strong organizational leadership and sound religious principles are undeniable.
Warren Buffett, one of the world’s most renowned investors and philanthropists, exemplifies many fundamental values common to numerous religious traditions while identifying as agnostic. Despite openly expressing uncertainty about the existence of God, Buffett's life and work demonstrate that ethical principles associated with religious beliefs can be embraced regardless of one's theological stance.
Despite his immense wealth, Buffett is known for his frugal lifestyle, humility, and detachment from material excess. His commitment to giving away the majority of his fortune through the Giving Pledge reflects principles of charity and generosity. Buffett's emphasis on ethical business practices and long-term value creation (as opposed to short-term gains) aligns with the concepts of stewardship and avoidance of immediate gratification. His investment thesis includes focusing on business leadership teams that embody fundamental religious and ethical tenets.
"In looking for people to hire, you look for three qualities: integrity, intelligence, and energy. And if they don't have the first, the other two will kill you."[1] – Warren Buffet
[1] Warren Buffet, https://www.inc.com/marcel-schwantes/warren-buffett-interview-for-integrity-to-screen-out-impostors.html, 12/6/24