From Social Movements to Identity Transformation: Comparison of Estonian and Finnish Management Students’ Values

Abstract

Students studying management in universities hope to acquire the knowledge and skills required in the positions they will hold later on. Countries characterized as transition economies face especially important questions of identity transformation, because their business life is being shaped in close connection with the political and intellectual developments in society. Estonia is one of the countries currently in transition; its former leaders and managers are giving way to their younger counterparts. The decisions made and the values adopted by the latter will not only affect organizations but also society as a whole. The discussion concerning values is gaining increasing attention in the media and academic journals. Value change is a topic of current interest also among the managers themselves. Education and training are seen to be fundamental means by which values can be affected.