Chapter 14 : Transpersonal Economics

The need for economic stability has received considerable attention during the past few years as a result of the severity of the global recession. Financial pathology arises from personal, cultural, and transpersonal influences that comprise belief systems. In turn, these belief systems inform thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Examining the historical roots of Western misidentification with wealth creates awareness and provides space for new choices. The wisdom tradition of Jainism illustrates the ability to be mindful of the ecology while creating economic prosperity. A study of Certified Financial Planners (CFPs) who scored high in transpersonal awareness reveals the same essential practice and soul recognition as Jains employ. These participants experience higher client retention and job satisfaction rates than those who score lower in transpersonal awareness. This research suggests the possibility of improving economic performance through exploring and implementing practices rooted in transpersonal psychology