Conscience Incorporated: Pursue Profits While Protecting Human Rights

Michael H. Posner's "Conscience Incorporated" presents a compelling case for integrating human rights considerations into corporate strategy. This timely work demonstrates how businesses can uphold ethical standards whilst maintaining profitability in today's complex global marketplace.

Posner draws upon his extensive experience as both a human rights advocate and business professor to bridge the traditionally separate worlds of corporate profit-seeking and human rights protection. His central thesis argues that companies can - and must - move beyond the narrative of profit versus ethics to embrace a model where commercial success depends on respecting fundamental rights.

The book systematically unpacks how globalisation has transformed corporate responsibility, creating new challenges that demand innovative approaches. Posner provides numerous case studies featuring multinational corporations which offer practical lessons rather than merely theoretical frameworks.

Particularly insightful is Posner's analysis of supply chain management, where he demonstrates how rigorous human rights due diligence can mitigate reputational damage whilst building more resilient operations. His exploration of technology companies grappling with privacy concerns and content moderation highlights the challenges of corporate responsibility in the digital age.

For managers, Posner advocates embedding human rights considerations into core business operations rather than relegating them to the CSR function. He provides frameworks for conducting thorough risk assessments that identify potential human rights impacts before they become a crisis. The book also details collaborative approaches where companies can work with civil society organisations, governments and industry peers to address systemic issues.

He argues persuasively that executives who prioritise rights-respecting business practices can develop broader strategic thinking capabilities and greater resilience when it comes to navigating complex stakeholder relationships.

As the former Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor under President Obama, Posner has helped shape policy at the highest levels. Currently serving as Professor of Ethics, Business and Human Rights at NYU's Stern School of Business, he combines academic rigour with practical experience. He also founded the Center for Business and Human Rights at NYU Stern - the first human rights centre at a business school.

This book is essential reading for managers seeking to navigate the increasingly important intersection of business and human rights.