ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the ways in which Jain thought can contribute to an alternative model for business and the conduct of economic life, including a principle of economic growth that differs from the conventional and currently prevalent definitions. It is about attitudes towards that ownership and the social obligations that property investment and business ownership impart. The Jain business model is based on a series of obligations by the enterprise towards the community it serves, beginning with family and friendship networks and extending towards all members of society, human and non-human. The chapter describes the 'alternative' model as Jain, while the dominant or hegemonic model is referred to as western, although it is no longer exclusive to the west or Global North. It is also surely to a large extent counterbalanced by the energy and creativity displayed by Jains in pursuing non-violent commercial activities and the emphasis their communities place on voluntary work to alleviate unintentional harm.
