The theory of Tao Te Ching and its practical application in modern times. As one of the “Four Sages of Management” in Japan, Kazuo Inamori’s management philosophy is deeply influenced by Eastern ideas such as the Analects. He drew rich wisdom and inspiration from reading the Analects of Confucius and successfully applied it to business operations. The following is a detailed explanation of the insights and wisdom that Kazuo Inamori gained from reading the Analects of Confucius on managing businesses:

1、 Respectful to heaven, loving others, and altruistic heart
Inamori Kazuo was deeply influenced by the ideas of “benevolence and love others” in the Analects of Confucius, and proposed the business philosophy of “respecting heaven and loving others, and having an altruistic heart”. He emphasized that enterprises should respect the laws of nature, follow the will of heaven, and care for employees, customers, and society to achieve sustainable development. This altruistic business philosophy not only helps to build a good corporate culture, but also enhances the cohesion and centripetal force of the enterprise, improves its social image and brand value.

2、 Establish lofty and lofty goals
Inamori Kazuo was deeply inspired by the ideas in the Analects of Confucius, such as “aspiring to the Tao, relying on virtue, relying on benevolence, and pursuing art,” in his business operations, emphasizing the need for enterprises to establish lofty and lofty goals. He believes that only with lofty goals can we stimulate the innovative spirit and enterprising spirit of enterprises, and promote their continuous development. At the same time, he also emphasized that goals should be specific and quantifiable, so that employees can clarify their work direction and tasks.

3、 Pay attention to corporate culture and team building
Inamori Kazuo places great emphasis on cultivating corporate culture and team building in his business operations. He drew inspiration from the Analects of Confucius, emphasizing the importance for companies to create a harmonious, inclusive, and innovative working atmosphere, allowing employees to work in an environment of mutual respect and trust. At the same time, he also focuses on cultivating employees’ teamwork spirit and innovation awareness, encouraging them to actively participate in the decision-making and management work of the enterprise, and jointly promote the development of the enterprise.

4、 Adhere to honest management and prioritize quality
Inamori Kazuo was deeply influenced by the ideas of “promises must be kept, actions must be taken” in the Analects of Confucius in his business operations, and adhered to the principles of honest management and quality priority. He believes that integrity is the foundation of a company’s existence, and only by maintaining integrity in business can we win the trust and loyalty of customers. At the same time, he also emphasized that quality is the lifeline of enterprises. Only by focusing on improving quality can we meet the needs and expectations of customers, win market recognition and reputation.

5、 Emphasize continuous innovation and change
Inamori Kazuo places great emphasis on continuous innovation and change in his business operations. He drew inspiration from the ideas of “never tire of learning, never tire of teaching” in the Analects, emphasizing that enterprises should constantly learn new knowledge, new technologies, and new methods to adapt to market changes and customer needs. At the same time, he also encourages employees to actively participate in innovation activities, propose new ideas and suggestions, and promote the continuous development of the enterprise. This spirit of continuous innovation and change not only helps to enhance the competitiveness and innovation capabilities of enterprises, but also brings new growth points and opportunities for them.

The enlightenment and wisdom of Inamori Kazuo’s reading of the Analects on business management are mainly reflected in his respect for heaven and love for others, altruistic heart, establishment of lofty and lofty goals, emphasis on corporate culture and team building, adherence to honest management and quality priority, and emphasis on continuous innovation and change. These insights and inspirations not only help Kazuo Inamori successfully manage his business, but also provide valuable references and guidance for other entrepreneurs.