One can debate whether or not this is the result of a generation of students who have simply become attuned to these concepts as part of their maturing years, or whether there is something deeper going on. Reasonable people can also debate the relative economic merit of such approaches to business. Regardless, the intent and interests of these students is real. I believe there is a legitimate question, however, as to whether business schools themselves should, in the name of being “market responsive,” spend so much time focusing often scarce resources on programs and courses that enable students to pursue the building of such businesses, rather than first renewing their focus on teaching the critical thinking, analytical and functional skills of business that will actually enable graduates to make their dreams come true.

I sometimes see what I think is a dangerous trend toward schools trying to “accommodate market demand” around social entrepreneurship concepts through this special program or another, perhaps to the detriment of applying resources to the more fundamental proficiencies required to succeed in business generally. To be clear, I am not arguing business schools should not continue their drive toward integrating corporate social responsibility concepts, such as ethics, sustainability, etc., into the curriculum and learning environment. I’m saying it is a matter of finding the right balance between the fundamental, core responsibility of business schools–which is to develop in individuals the complex suite of skills they need to succeed as business leaders and managers–and focusing resources chasing after concepts (however valid and important) that are secondary to their fundamental purpose.

-Tim Westerbeck, Managing Director & Principal