Document Type : Exploratory
Authors
1 Ph.D Student, Department of Public Administration, Human Resources, Aras Campus, University of Tehran, Iran.
2 Associate Professor, Department of Public Administration Faculty of Management and Accounting, Farabi College, University of Tehran, Iran.
3 Assistant Professor, Department of Public Administration Faculty of Management and Accounting, Farabi College, University of Tehran, Iran
Abstract
EXTENDED ABSTRACT
Introduction
The of this study was to gain a deep, phenomenological understanding of the concept of spiritual capital in the university context, specifically from the perspective of the lived experiences of faculty members at the Iran University of Science and Technology. This research explores how spiritual capital manifests within higher education institutions and its role in shaping the academic environment.
Mothodology
The research employed a qualitative methodology utilizing an interpretive phenomenological approach. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews with 22 faculty members. The analysis was conducted using thematic analysis, which involved a rigorous process of coding and categorization, resulting in the extraction of 610 sub-themes, 60 components, and 12 organizing themes.
Fingdings
Findings revealed that spiritual capital in the university manifests as a dynamic and invisible force grounded in ethical values, academic integrity, justice, social responsibility, and service to society. This capital transforms the university from a purely educational-research institution into a “meaningful community.” Key reinforcing factors include spiritual leadership, a trust-based organizational culture, and ethics-oriented education, while primary barriers include pressures for quantitative output, materialistic culture, and unhealthy competition.
Discussion and Conclusion
The study confirms the positive role of spiritual capital in enhancing academic environments. By generating deep intrinsic motivation, spiritual capital enhances real and sustainable productivity, reduces occupational burnout, strengthens organizational resilience, and improves collaboration. A significant innovation of this study is the presentation of a four-level framework—comprising individual, group, intergroup, and organizational levels—with a specific emphasis on achieving sustainable productivity. The results suggest that fostering spiritual capital is essential for imbuing academic work with meaning and transitioning universities toward more resilient and value-driven organizations
Keywords
Main Subjects
)