In this thesis, I develop a comprehensive normative and operational framework for embedding epistemic openness within fiduciary corporate governance, arguing that directors have distinct epistemic duties requiring them to systematically integrate diverse stakeholder knowledge. Drawing on fiduciary ethics (Frankel, 2011), epistemic justice theory (Fricker, 2007; Anderson, 2012), stakeholder theory (Freeman, 1984), and Sen’s capability approach (Sen, 2009), I demonstrate how meaningful stakeholder participation is central to organisational legitimacy, innovation, and sustainability. I explicitly counter Abraham Singer’s (2015) assertion that Rawlsian principles of justice cannot be meaningfully applied to corporate governance. Contrary to Singer, I argue that corporate governance is inherently political, given corporations’ extensive influence over public policy, economic equality, and social welfare. Therefore, appropriately contextualised Rawlsian principles of fairness are not only relevant but necessary for addressing structural epistemic injustices within contemporary corporate governance.
Just released: Directors’ Epistemic Duties & Fiduciary Openness — a new governance thesis reframing ESG & DEI as core epistemic responsibilities.
Let’s talk DEI as fiduciary logic.
pkahl.substack.com/p/directors-...
#ESG #DEI #Governance #Justice #Stakeholders #DiversityEqualityInclusion
