Levels of Business Ethics And Myths Of Business Ethics

LEVELS OF BUSINESS ETHICS :

NORMATIVE ETHICS is focused on the creation of theories that provide general moral rules governing our behavior, such as Utilitarianism or Kantian Ethics. The normative ethicist, rather than being a football player, is more like a referee who sets up the rules governing how the game is played.

META ETHICS is the study of how we engage in ethics. Thus, the metaethicist has a role more similar to a football commentator rather than to a referee or player. The metaethicist judges and comments on how the ethical game is being played rather than advancing practical arguments, or kicking the football, themselves. For example, the metaethicist might comment on the meaning and appropriateness of ethical language, just as the football commentator might remark on the appropriateness of particular tactics or set-piece routines.

APPLIED ETHICS is the study of how we should act in specific areas of our lives; how we should deal with issues like meat-eating, euthanasia or stealing. To use the football analogy, the applied ethicist kicks the philosophical football around just as a footballer kicks the ball on the field. A good applied ethicist might score goals and be successful by offering specific arguments that convince us to change our moral views in a particular corner of our lives.

MYTHS ABOUT BUSINESS ETHICS :

The concept of the ethics is based on the philosophy and psychological parameters.

Some myths related to business ethics are:

  1. It is difficult to apply ethics.
  2. There is need for ethical policy as all our employees are ethical.
  3. Since Ethics is a complex matter, academicians and philosophers can be best people to understand it.
  4. Business Ethics is a new fashion
  5. Since we follow all laws, we are
  6. Ethics is related to religion and business has nothing to do with religion.
  7. Ethics is superfluous (unnecessary) and indicates only showiness to outside world.
  8. It is believed that business ethics and social responsibilities of the business mean the same thing. In fact, there is a technical difference between two concepts. Business ethics deals with governing the corporate behavior towards social responsibilities.
  9. It is believed that ethics is internal and has an individual perception and so it is not amenable for managing control.

some myths and facts are :

Business ethics refers to the principles and standards that guide behavior in the world of business. There are many myths about business ethics that can create misunderstandings about what it is and how it should be practiced. Here are a few common myths:

1. Myth: Businesses only care about making money.

Fact: While making a profit is important for the survival and success of a business, it is not the only goal. Many businesses also have a commitment to ethical behavior, social responsibility, and sustainability.

2. Myth: Business ethics is the same as personal ethics.

Fact : While personal and business ethics may overlap, they are not the same. Business ethics involves considering the impact of business decisions on stakeholders such as employees, customers, and the community, as well as the legal and regulatory environment in which the business operates.

3. Myth: Businesses that follow ethical practices are less competitive.

Fact: In many cases, the opposite is true. Businesses that are transparent, fair, and responsible often have a positive reputation, which can lead to increased customer loyalty and trust. This can give them a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

4. Myth: Business ethics is only important for large corporations.

Fact: Ethical behavior is important for businesses of all sizes. Whether you are a sole proprietor or a multinational corporation, your actions can have an impact on your employees, customers, and the community.

5. Myth: Business ethics is not relevant to small business owners.

Fact: Small business owners have the same ethical responsibilities as larger businesses. They have a responsibility to treat their employees fairly, to act transparently, and to be honest and fair in their business dealings.

BOOK REFRENCE ( CLICK TO BUY )

  1. Velasquez , M.G. : Business Ethics
  2. R.C. : Ethical Choices in Business