| Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to analyze the relation between personal values and the principles of Total Quality Management and thus to propose a tentative framework of relationships.
Design/methodology/approach: The paper is conceptual. It reviews some lists of values present in literature, and summarizes them in a more comprehensive list. Then it follows the definitions of these values according to some philosophical models, and the analysis of their implications in the business life in general. Thus, tries to explain the relation between them and the principles of TQM, passing through the two mediating variables passion and trust.
Findings: A model of quality management based on personal values is proposed.
Research limitations: The lack of empirical data that can validate the model, and the lack of specific hypothesis of investigation.
Practical Implications (if possible): Considering the emphasis placed on personal values, the model can have some practical implications in the field of recruitment, promotion, and leadership.
Originality/value: The model fills the gap between personal values and the principles of Total Quality Management, being the first attempt to present a comprehensive model of interactions. A novel framework that can provide a basis for further research into the profound nature of quality management has been proposed. Furthermore, some implications that should be useful for recruiters and managers are discussed. | 
Ph.D., Lic. Theses
