Human resource development in balance: Revisiting the purpose of HRD and ethical perspectives

The purpose of human resource development (HRD) is to promote both individual and organisational development. However, critical scholars have voiced concerns that the dominant approach to HRD is skewed to favour performance-oriented organisational development. The debate as to whether HRD should prioritise organisations or individuals leads to the subsequent question about ethical perspectives of HRD, particularly between deontology and teleology. This study: 1) looks into contrasting yet complementary views surrounding HRD (i.e., person-centred and production-centred approach, deontology and teleology); 2) proposes conceptual frameworks to help with balanced HRD decision-making; 3) suggests implications for practice and research. This study concludes with the argument that HRD professionals should demonstrate leadership by doing the right things and ultimately help to ensure the continued progress and contribution of HRD.