David C. Korten
Papers
1
Total Citations
6
H-Index
1
About
David C. Korten is a visionary scholar and activist whose work bridges economics, ecology, and spirituality to challenge the foundations of modern industrial society. His research focuses on the transformation from corporate-dominated global capitalism toward locally rooted, life-centered economies—a vision he terms "ecological civilization." Korten’s major contributions include his seminal critique of corporate globalization in *When Corporations Rule the World* and his advocacy for a "New Enlightenment" that reorients humanity toward cooperation, ecological balance, and community resilience. His 2017 paper, "Ecological Civilization and the New Enlightenment" (6 citations), distills decades of thought, arguing that humanity’s survival depends on a conscious collective choice to reject growth-at-all-costs paradigms. While his citation counts are modest, Korten’s influence is profound: his books have sold hundreds of thousands of copies, shaping grassroots movements and policy debates worldwide. A former Harvard Business School professor and Ford Foundation advisor, he co-founded the Positive Futures Network and the Alliance for a New Humanity. Korten’s work remains a touchstone for students and researchers seeking an integrated, hopeful path beyond the crises of our time.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1Ecological Civilization and the New Enlightenment6 citations · 2017