Baha'i Teachings on Economics and Their Implications for the Baha'i Community and the Wider Society

The Bahá’í faith has appeared at a time of global social and economic integration and internationalisation of affairs. Therefore, it is timely to carry out a systematic study of the extensive volume of primary writings of the Bahá’í faith on economics and related subjects. This is the focus of this dissertation. This research will further attempt to explore and develop the understanding of Bahá’í writers and scholars on this subject, and systematise them in a fashion that is accessible to academia, and beneficial to the Bahá’ís, the Bahá’í institutions and the wider society. This requires extensive study of primary scriptures and institutional resources of the Bahá’í faith. The discussion will be centered on the Bahá’í belief of unity as a core principle and as a prerequisite for improving the material and spiritual life of the Bahá’í community. Consequently, through a holistic approach this research links spiritual principles to the material life of individuals and families. The proposition is that a multi-dimensional solution based on the material and spiritual aspects of life can influence human action and improve people’s quality of life. The thesis argues that the role of economics is to attain a good life and the role of religion is to educate and inspire people how to live a good life, hence the assertion is that the Bahá’í faith as a religion and economics as a social science are complementary in their aims and objectives. The two entities as social disciplines would work well together in creating a better-balanced life and prosperous communities. The inspired vision of this thesis is therefore not limited to the Bahá’í community but also applies to the wider society. Without discarding the existing economic systems, models and theories, the proposition is that the exploration, appreciation and understanding of moral and spiritual principles of the Bahá’í faith on economics would be harmonising and beneficial to all.