Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On completion of this subject students should have the ability to identify important ethical issues and dilemmas that arise in various business contexts; have an understanding of the moral social and economic environments within which those dilemmas occur; have a sound understanding of the ethical concepts and philosophical frameworks that are relevant for resolving ethical problems; have the ability to apply ethical concepts and frameworks to moral dilemmas in business; have developed the necessary reasoning and analytical skills for resolving those ethical dilemmas in a critical and creative manner with due regard for all stakeholders in the business.
Synopsis The primary focus of this subject is ethics as it applies to business. The subject will begin by providing a framework of basic principles for understanding which is meant by `good' and `right'. It will then proceed to discuss the implications these have for management, and to explore contemporary issues facing today's manager. Topics will be selected from the nature and extent of corporate social responsibility; multinationals and global ethics; bribery; affirmative action, employee rights; whistleblowing; product safety; ethical issues in marketing, advertising and environmental protection. The focus will be upon theory and practice and a wide range of contemporary case materials, in which managers try to reconcile the demands of principles and expediency, will be utilised.
Assessment Written (assignment 4000 words): 40% + Tutorial participation: 10% + Examination (2 hours): 50%