Bentoism

Bentoism is a decision-making framework first introduced in a book called This Could Be Our Future: A Manifesto for a More Generous World by Yancey Strickler. The framework extends how people should define "self-interest" and argues that instead of relying solely on current desires and needs, people should also consider their future selves, their dependents, and the next generations.
Name
Stickler derived the name of the framework from the Japanese bento box - a four-dished container used to pre-assemble a variety of food.
Framework
Strickler argues that companies and individuals today move increasingly toward "financial maximization" - motivation to make decisions resulting in high short-term gains. In doing so, people lose the sight of the bigger picture.
The framework introduces additional stakeholders into the decision-making process and "seeks to expand some of the tools of financial maximization to a wider set of values". In addition to considering current needs and desires (Now Me), people should take into account:
Nevertheless, Strickler identifies businesses as vital for a significant social change because of their ability to respond to changes in their base and spaces where they operate. Customers, on the other hand, need to set high standards for the businesses and be supportive of their evolution.<ref name=NS/>

Main Menu

See Also

Main Menu