The Hot-Button List
J.C. Watts once said, “Character is doing the right thing when nobody’s looking. There are too many people who think that the only thing that’s right is to get by, and the only thing that’s wrong is to get caught.” There are many companies that produce products and services that blatantly oppose what you believe in. You may be knowingly or unknowingly investing in companies that are fighting against moral and social issues and causes dear to you. You may not even realize that you have a choice as to where you invest and that you can avoid investing in companies that contradict your belief system.

Following is a list of causes and concerns that may affect your moral decisions. These hot buttons are the most common examples of issues that generate strong emotional responses. If any of these issues are of concern to you, I strongly advise that you begin to consider the implications of investing in companies that violate your internal
moral compass. There are tools and research available to help you eliminate or minimize your involvement in these hot buttons. J.C. Watts once said, “Character is doing the right thing when nobody’s looking. There are too many people who think that the only thing that’s right is to get by, and the only thing that’s wrong is to get caught.”

Moral vs. Social Issues

Here are a few moral issues that you may be concerned with:
Abortion: This includes companies engaged in the manufacturing,marketing, and licensing of substances used to voluntarily terminate pregnancy. This also includes companies who provide voluntary abortion services.

Homosexual Activities: This includes companies that actively recognize and promote homosexuality. This can include companies offering same-sex benefits when not required by law, diversity training, and other homosexual-friendly policies and programs.

Pornography:This would include companies involved in the distribution or production of adult-oriented publications, motion pictures, or television programs. It also includes companies involved in sexually explicit Internet
operations, videos games, and live performances.

Poor Human Rights: This includes companies who have exposure in countries where there are poor working conditions, abusive practices, child labor, and violations of human rights.

Embryonic Stem Cell Research: This includes companies involved in using embryonic or fetal tissue cells in their research. It also includes companies conducting adult, umbilical, or placenta stem cell research.

Here are some social issues you may be concerned with:

Alcohol: This would include companies involved in alcohol manufacturing, branding, and wholesale distribution.

Antifamily Entertainment: This includes exposure to companies producingor marketing video, print, or live entertainment that is violent, vulgar, or mocking Judeo-Christian traditions or beliefs.

Gambling: This includes companies involved in the ownership and operation of casinos, gaming parlors, racetracks, online betting, or other wagering services. It also includes companies involved in manufacturing equipment used in gambling.

Poor Environmental Record: This includes companies ranked high for environmental damage through pollution, toxic emissions, oil or chemical spills, and high levels of waste.

Tobacco: This includes companies involved in tobacco manufacturing, wholesale distribution, and products used for tobacco consumption.

What issues resonate with you?

Here is a question to ponder: Would you purposely invest money in companies involved in any of the areas listed on this list? After taking some time to examine this list of hot buttons, what issues, if any, most resonated with you? Are there any areas in which you wish to avoid investing in your financial life? If any of these issues ignite strong emotional responses, is your passion strong enough that you want to do something about it? As you explore additional concepts, you will be enlightened with tools, tips, and a process to incorporate your faith into your financial life.

I wrote The Faith-Based Millionaire to help others make sure their investment dollars are not violating their specific “hot buttons.” For more information read the book today! Biblically responsible investing, faith-based investing, moral investing – call it what you will.  Most importantly is making sure you incorporate your faith, morals, values, and beliefs into your financial plan.  This enables you to be a better steward with the resources God has entrusted to you!