2.6: Ethics in Business, Some challenges Flashcards
Why is “just do the right thing” insufficient as a standard for ethical behavior in business?
It is too open-ended, leading to multiple interpretations and lacks a standard for measuring accountability. Ethical behavior in business requires organizational processes and structures.
What are three myths about business ethics identified by Treviño and Brown?
It’s easy to be ethical: Ethical decisions are complex and require moral awareness.
Unethical behavior is the result of “bad apples”: Ethical behavior is influenced by context and leadership.
People are less ethical now than in the past: Ethical behavior has not changed significantly over time.
How does self-perception challenge ethical behavior?
People often believe they behave ethically but fall short in self-assessment.
Unintentional biases and implicit decision-making may lead to unethical actions without awareness.
What are the four biases identified by Banaji, Bazerman, and Chugh that affect ethical behavior?
Implicit prejudice: Stereotyping based on unconscious beliefs.
In-group favoritism: Preferential treatment for those within one’s group.
Over-claiming credit: Overestimating one’s contributions or entitlement.
Conflict of interest: Bias toward those who benefit the individual.
What is “roboethics,” and why is it important in business?
Roboethics addresses the social, ethical, and legal implications of robotics, focusing on issues like job displacement and programming autonomous robots to make ethical decisions.
What are the main ethical concerns with robotics in the workplace?
Job replacement disrupting human flourishing.
How robots are programmed to make ethical decisions.
Usage of robots in controversial roles (e.g., killer drones).
How can ethical theories guide decision-making in ethical dilemmas?
Utilitarian ethic: Evaluate consequences of each option.
Ethical egoism: Balance self-interest with selfish/selfless goals.
Virtue ethic: Reflect on what an admired person would do.
Deontological universal ethic: Define moral duties and principles.
Justice ethic: Assess fairness and legal obligations.
Ethics of care: Rely on empathy and gut feelings.
Why is a systematic approach to ethics necessary in business?
A systematic approach ensures distribution of harms and benefits among stakeholders is fair, building confidence and trust in corporate decisions.
