The view of mankind that the business economist uses is important to determine the goals, means and application methods. The view of mankind of the ‘homo economicus’ has analytic and inspiring value for the economics and the economic models used until now, but it is a fairly scant image. A new view of mankind, the ‘homo dignus’, presents a good alternative. This perspective views people as worthy, but limited. It does not lose the core of economics, but provides more variety in determining goals, means and application methods. Moreover, the view of mankind as a steward can be valuable. This view can help leaders to think further than monetary maximisation. In that case, adaptability and satisfaction are important features.

The Modern Business Economist from Rotterdam develops himself by controlling the original ‘clover-four’ plus the two other elements. The comprehensive handling of those six elements constitutes a renewal which is necessary because of the developments in humanity, society and economics. In practice the business economist on the labour market will be encouraged to specialize in his first years and will therefore be assigned to narrowly oriented tasks. However, holistic thinking will be more important when the business economist grows into more responsible and managerial positions. Overspecialization is then not valuable anymore. The business economist provides added value in practice by integrating the four elements of business economics with the elements of ethics and data, information and knowledge management.