Includes bibliographical references :p. ([378]-392) and index.

Introduction : the new realities of corporate purpose -- Part 1. Influences on meaning, strategy, managing, and performance. Purpose and performance : leveraging the essence of a corporation -- Corporations and individuals : creating meaning and competitiveness -- Strategy : defining corporate mission, priorities, and direction -- Managing : transforming purpose into action -- Part 2. Capital markets, property rights, and the individual. Capital-market relationships : the myths of shareholder wealth maximization -- Property rights : the shareholders' rights and responsibilities -- Individualism : America's competitive advantage -- Part 3. Competing purposes in the global marketplace. Purpose and global competitiveness : the realities -- America's rivals : changing the rules of competition -- Conclusion : the lessons for leadership. Infusing purpose : a moral and strategic responsibility of leadership.

This book considers the relationship between a corporation's stated aims and its strategy, leadership, workers, and competitive performance. Breaking with the orthodox view that corporations should seek first to maximize shareholder wealth, Ellsworth argues for a focus on the customer. Particular attention is given to the meaning employees give their work, the logic of "value-based management," the impact of globalization, and the aims of leadership.