For this investigation, we conducted intensive case studies of business leaders and young entrepreneurs. We examined how, and under what circumstances, successful business people use moral principles as they pursue their goals. Our study consisted of the following threads:

• Veteran Business Leaders study: Between 1998 and 2000, we conducted interviews with 38 of the nation’s most recognized business leaders. The majority of the leaders interviewed were between the ages of 45 and 65. They led companies that represented a broad spectrum of the business world, including: computer hardware and software, manufacturing, retail, biotechnology, entertainment, and real estate.

• Young Business Entrepreneurs study: As part of the Young Professionals Project, we conducted 18 interviews with business entrepreneurs between the ages of 21 and 34.