The Capitalist Christian: Reflections on Individuality and Office Politics in the Georgia-Pacific Moment

The Capitalist Christian: Reflections on Individuality and Office Politics in the Georgia-Pacific Moment

Abstract

This article explores the tensions that arise when capitalist and Christian values intersect in the workplace, specifically within the context of Georgia-Pacific, a major corporation founded by a devout Christian. Drawing on interviews with current and former employees, as well as analysis of corporate documents and publications, the author argues that Georgia-Pacific's corporate culture places a strong emphasis on individuality and self-reliance, often at the expense of communal values traditionally associated with Christianity. This dynamic is particularly evident in the company's approach to office politics, where employees are encouraged to engage in ruthless competition and self-promotion in order to advance their careers. The article concludes that while Georgia-Pacific's capitalist ethos may be compatible with certain aspects of Christian theology, the company's emphasis on individualism and self-interest ultimately conflicts with the communal principles at the heart of the faith.

Citation

Kenlin Matej "The Capitalist Christian: Reflections on Individuality and Office Politics in the Georgia-Pacific Moment".  IEEE Exploration in Machine Learning, 2018.

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This paper appears in:
Date of Release: 2018
Author(s): Kenlin Matej.
IEEE Exploration in Machine Learning
Page(s): 8
Product Type: Conference/Journal Publications