Leadership and the Golden Rule
A very long time ago, Confucius said 'What you do not want done to yourself, do not do to others'. He called it the Golden Maxim, in the meantime it's better known as the Golden Rule or the ethic of reciprocity. It figures prominently in many religions and is the central foundation for human rights. As a matter of fact, it is a very social rule.
True leaders will observe the Golden Rule and treat all of their employees with esteem. Great brands will observe the Golden Rule as well and treat all consumers with esteem. In short, it is a good guideline for social entrepreneurship: empathetic, compassionate and attentive. After all, there can be no reciprocity, if we don't listen to others.
Immanuel Kant pointed out that the Golden Rule has its limitations in terms of universal applicability when compared to the categorical imperative. But in my opinion, the Golden Rule is an important first step and it is a shame that so few choose to take it.