Business Ethics

Ethics: A Personal Perspective

How we perceive ethical issues and how we expect others to act is in many respects a reflection of our personal views.  Considering the importance of our internal views of ethics, discuss what things come to mind when you think of the word “ethics”?  Do you think your views on ethics have evolved based on your life experiences or do you believe that your ethics DNA was established at birth. Why?

Drawing on your ethical compass as discussed above and using the assigned readings and viewing as a framework, how would you resolve the following ethical situation:

You are on a boat and nearby are two large rocks filled with persons waiting to be rescued; there are six people on one rock and five on the other.  Assume that you cannot rescue both groups and that you are the only one able to rescue either group. Which group do you rescue?

In your response be certain to identify what you believe is the ethical choice or dilemma that is presented, and discuss your reasons and possible alternative solutions to the one that you propose.  Is what you would actually do different from what you should do? If so, why?

Learning Activity #2

Ethics: the meaning and importance of ethics

Scenario:  You have been recently hired in the human resources department at the company you have always dreamed of working for. At the end of your first day, your manager on her way out of the office, asks you:

“So…what are 3 things that come to mind when you think of the word “ethics”, as it applies to you personally?”

She asks that you give her your ideas and thoughts on this question in a conversation tomorrow.

How would you respond to your manager re:  this question?

Course Materials: