Interview: Verena Rauen on Philosophical Approaches to Business Consulting
Type
book section
Date Issued
2026-05-27
Author(s)
Editor(s)
Schuster Sören E.
Abstract
Verena Rauen is a philosopher engaged in academic research and teaching while also specializing in audit-related consulting in the areas of compliance, integrity management, and whistleblowing. In this interview, she outlines her trajectory from studying the concept of forgiveness to examining corruption and whistleblowing and providing advisory services on compliance management systems. Although such systems are shaped by intricate technical and legal requirements, philosophical expertise offers essential perspectives on their ethical and cultural dimensions. In an anonymized case study, Rauen illustrates that any assessment or implementation of a compliance management system must begin with a systematic analysis of the client’s specific compliance risks, shaped by organizational structure, size, business profile, and legal form. Particular emphasis is placed on cultural factors and on the structured methodologies required to strengthen compliance and whistleblowing management. She further reflects on the potential of philosophy to foster innovation in this field, while also arguing that philosophy must preserve a critical distance from economic logic if it is to maintain its relevance and distinctive strengths.
Language
English
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
Refereed
No
Book title
Philosophical Approaches to Business Consulting. Case Studies Exploring Uncharted Territory
Publisher
Springer Nature (Germany)
Division(s)