International Business Ethics (Richard T. DE George)

Question 1

International business ethics is concerned with…

Answer 1

the moral judgements of business issues, arising from having operations in two or more countries. It aims to view business from an ethical viewpoint that is “internationally neutral” (but I personally don’t think this is possible, at least not in such a messy & complex world; but there is the concern of the “One World” program by the World Economic Forum).

Question 2

International business ethics focuses on Multinationals (MNCs)

Answer 2

Because multinationals operate in many (diverse) countries

Question 3

Should there be universal norms for international businesses everywhere?

Answer 3

While bribery, child labour, & pollution are more or less “universally” viewed as ethical concerns of global trade (with exceptions), international business ethics is broad & includes global warming, depleting natural resources etc., & of course the different practices in many parts of the world.

Question 4

International business ethics follows the divisions of general ethics (we’re taking a look at IB ethics through these 4 lenses)

Answer 4

• descriptive ethics
• comparative ethics
• normative ethics
• metaethics

Question 5

Descriptive ethics in IB ethics

Answer 5

Describes ethical practices in different parts of the world

Question 6

Comparative ethics in IB ethics

Answer 6

Compares & contrasts both ethical theories & practices in different countries or cultures

Question 7

Normative ethics in IB ethics

Answer 7

Attempts to state & justify norms, principles, & values that should be followed by businesses in international dealings & operations

Question 8

Meta ethics

Answer 8

looks at the meaning of ethical terms & questions such as whether human rights are universal, or a Western philosophical view of human being & society (individualistic vs collectivistic view of society).

Question 9

There is no code that has been written or attained broad international adherence. Are there a set of principles for MNCs follow?

Answer 9

Corporations, Governments, industries, groups, academics, & international organisations are working to clarify applicable ethical norms for international business. (E.g., UN Commission on Transnational Corporations, UN Sustainable Development Goals).