Rethinking Investment Beliefs in a Time of Crisis: The Calming Hand of Philosophy

Abstract

Three insights from philosophy are helpful in this time of financial and economic crisis. First, philosophy is designed to inspire a state of calm, meditative reflection. Second, only during crises are personal, political, and investment beliefs seriously tested. Third, philosophical beliefs underpin much of the debate about the crisis and its solutions. These are, in turn, underpinned by personal beliefs about society, politics, ethics, and human behaviour. Exposing some of these hidden paradigms gives investors an opportunity to test, adapt or even abandon their investment beliefs. All of this supports the Tao-like challenge that to be useful, investment beliefs must be flexible and firmly held at the same time.

Keywords: Ethics, Implementation, Investment Beliefs, Pension Fund, Philosophy