History of Ethics

Ethical dilemmas plague everyone, even those who are honest and confident in their moral stance.  Ethical issues are complicated by changing norms and contrasting social theories.  Conflicts result from day-to-day business decisions influenced by factors such as loyalty.

Ethics are not limited to specific acts and defined moral codes. They encompass moral ideas and behaviors (philosophy of life).  Theories on social ethics can vary from business ethical theories. This course examines the history of ethics and those philosophers who have influenced ethical thinking.

Why should professionals study the history of ethics?  Increased reports of unethical behavior in businesses have stakeholders demanding more accountability.  Society’s evaluation of right and wrong affects an organization’s ability to meet goals.  By examining history of ethics, understanding the various ethical philosophies and why they were developed, examining issues and lessons learned, management and organizations might be able to begin to change behavior in a positive manner.