
By Jenny Holly Hansen | WBN News | April 16, 2025
Mark Carney's 2021 book, Value(s): Building a Better World for All, presents a compelling critique of modern economic systems and offers a vision for integrating human values into market economies. As Canadians approach the upcoming federal election, Carney's insights provide valuable perspectives on the intersection of economics, societal values, and policy-making that are pertinent to both voters and businesses across the nation.
Key Themes in Value(s):
- Separation of Value from Values: Carney argues that contemporary economies have increasingly prioritized market prices over intrinsic human values, leading to a disconnect that has contributed to various global crises, including financial instability and environmental degradation.
- Stakeholder Capitalism: He advocates for a shift from shareholder-centric models to stakeholder capitalism, emphasizing the importance of considering employees, communities, and the environment in business decisions.
- Sustainable and Inclusive Growth: Carney underscores the need for economic growth that is both sustainable and inclusive, addressing issues such as income inequality and climate change.
Relevance to Canadian Voters:
As Canadians prepare to cast their votes, Carney's emphasis on aligning economic policies with societal values resonates with current national discussions. The call for policies that promote fairness, sustainability, and resilience aligns with the priorities of many voters who seek a balanced approach to economic development and social well-being. Carney's perspectives may influence policy debates and party platforms, encouraging a focus on long-term value creation over short-term gains.
Implications for Canadian Businesses:
For businesses operating in Canada, adopting the principles outlined in Value(s) can lead to more robust and ethical operations. By integrating considerations of environmental impact, social responsibility, and good governance (ESG factors), companies can build trust with consumers and stakeholders. This approach not only enhances corporate reputation but also contributes to long-term profitability and resilience in a rapidly changing global market.
In conclusion, Mark Carney's Value(s) offers a framework that encourages both policymakers and business leaders to realign economic practices with fundamental human values. As the federal election approaches, these ideas provide a lens through which Canadians can evaluate the alignment of political platforms and business strategies with the broader goals of societal well-being and sustainable development.
Let’s Keep Talking:
Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance.
She is also a business development consultant with Impresario Partners, helping Canadian Business expand overseas.
She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jholly-hansen@wbnn.news. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/. Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social
Let’s Meet Up:
Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4
TAGS: #Jenny Holly Hansen #Mark Carney #Value(s): Building a Better World for All #Crituque of the Modern Economic Systems #2025 Federal Election #Ethical Operations #ESG Factors