Sustainability for Centuries: Monastic Governance of Austrian Benedictine Abbeys

Abstract

In this chapter the authors take a historical view on the development of the Benedictine Confederation. They use data about the lifespan of Benedictine abbeys and reflect on the reasons why they are such long-lasting and stable institutions, compared for example with the average lifespan of corporations. They ask if there are any unique governance mechanisms that can explain this longevity which might be useful in the secular world. However, they are sceptical regarding the possibilities for direct best practice transfers. In spite of this, they recommend studying the Benedictines leadership principles to encourage new thinking about corporate leadership.