ABSTRACT
Ethics and morality historically have been shaped by faith and tradition. To deny this fact, which also influences the world's legal systems, is to deceive society. The European history of empire and conquest has led to the demolition of cultures and traditions, and modern economics has been built on a cultural desert of its own creation. In this chapter, we go back to historical roots to show how the depth and richness of ethical finance practices, often stem from tradition. Given our sustainability crisis, rather than inventing new ‘solutions’ lacking in history or integrity, it is better to draw from this deep well of history. Along the way, we can discover self-regulating behaviours and social practices which have given confidence to finance and helped nurture lasting relationships of trust and well-being. Traditions harmonious with nature and society have survived the test of time – showing their innate sustainability. Jewish, Hindu, Jain, Christian and Islamic practices are discussed by way of example. The results are reflexive and communitarian finance.
