Bentoism


Bentoism is a decision-making framework first introduced in a book called This Could Be Our Future: A Manifesto for a More Generous World by Yancey Strickler. The framework extends how people should define "self-interest" and argues that instead of relying solely on current desires and needs, people should also consider their future selves, their dependents, and the next generations.

Name

Stickler derived the name of the framework from the Japanese bento box – a four-dished container used to pre-assemble a variety of food.

Framework

Strickler argues that companies and individuals today move increasingly toward "financial maximization" – motivation to make decisions resulting in high short-term gains. In doing so, people lose the sight of the bigger picture.
The framework introduces additional stakeholders into the decision-making process and "seeks to expand some of the tools of financial maximization to a wider set of values". In addition to considering current needs and desires, people should take into account:
Strickler writes that the discussion about a decision is between the voices of Future Me and Now Us, while the decision is made by the values of Future Me. The goal of Bentoism is therefore identification of proper values and ways of valuing activities.

Applicability

According to Strickler, we need to change the current way of doing business. He believes that capitalism is incomplete and there is an alternative way to contribute to the expansion of the society while continuing to reach financial targets.
Bentoism claims that the concept applies to both in life and business, and not only to consumption, but also investments, business administration, and relationship management. Strickler believes that operating with this tool allows us to deepen self-awareness and to manifest a life that isn't just self-interested but self-coherent.
Nevertheless, Strickler identifies businesses as vital for a significant social change because of their ability to respond to changes in their base and spaces where they operate. Customers, on the other hand, need to set high standards for the businesses and be supportive of their evolution.