This post addresses one observation from a keen student who
claims that business ethics doesn’t really exist outside the classroom. When you’re hired at a new job, you’ll
basically follow the behaviour of those around you: ethics doesn’t factor into
the equation, according to this student.
It’s important to remember that each individual is faced with a choice
to behave ethically or not, and the responsibility to do the right thing rests
squarely on the shoulders of each employee.
Although there is evidence to suggest that workers will emulate the
actions of those around them, it’s not a valid reason to do away with studying
business ethics. In fact, I believe it
provides a greater impetus for ethics training in business. Here’s a list of reasons why business ethics
is important inside and outside the walls of academia.
1. Studying business ethics gives teeth to a
post-secondary institution’s academic integrity policy. It pays more than just lip service to why it’s
necessary. Students are exposed to the
importance of values that contribute to the greater good. This notion was reinforced when a high
achieving student told me that she’s considered cheating before but dismissed
the temptation because it’s wrong. When
she sees others around her cheating, she feels almost compelled to do the same
as it seems to create an unfair environment.
2. Students are exposed to some solid theories and
are encouraged to think analytically. We
discuss Ken Blanchard’s ethics checklist in our first class. Honesty, fairness/balance and consciousness
of one’s actions provide a mini ethics test.
During the more intense classes, Kantian theory is outlined. What if everyone engaged in a similar
action? It’s clear the whole academic
system would be meaningless if everyone cheated.
3.
Unfortunately, business ethics case studies are
not in short supply. Current scenarios
are brought to light on a regular basis.
Studying business ethics is important because it offers the opportunity
to dissect past decisions, discover whether better actions could have been
implemented, and suggest ways of preventing similar negative ethical outcomes. The classic Ford Pinto case study sheds light
on important factors influencing the decision-making process. Students are exposed to the reality that
making ethical decisions is not a straight forward proposition.
4. The influence and power of business is an
important reason to study ethics.
Companies like Walmart, Apple and Google have more financial strength
than many nations. Organizations,
however, do not necessarily answer to the people in a democratic way. Their power is concentrated and with it the
ability to make decisions that can affect the lives of millions for better or
worse.
5. Finally, I believe that studying business ethics
is important because it sheds light on ethical issues that may have otherwise
gone unnoticed. Who are the stakeholders
in this scenario? What impact will be
made on the community when a major employer shutters a plant? What does the aftermath of the financial
crisis tell us about the banking industry and the vulnerability of consumers?
Business ethics is important regardless of what transpires
in society. In fact, as ethical misdeeds
grow, so does the need for solid and practical ethical training. One of the biggest, consumer-fueled proofs
that businesses are changing is the growing trend of corporate responsibility
and sustainability initiatives. Although
some may be done purely for show, I believe that most are seeking to make a
positive difference in the lives of people and the environment. If nothing else, businesses merely seeking to
make a profit are becoming more and more passé.
I hope the corporate pursuit of business ethics isn’t merely a fad
that will soon be out of fashion.
