Business Ethics and Corporate Responsibility

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Questions and Answers

What is a key advantage of a corporation for shareholders?

  • Direct management control
  • Tax-free dividends
  • Limited liability (correct)
  • Unlimited liability

Which statement is true about corporations?

  • Corporations are simpler to form than partnerships.
  • Corporations can sue or be sued as legal entities. (correct)
  • Corporations cannot hire employees.
  • Corporations are managed directly by shareholders at all times.

What does business ethics primarily involve?

  • Maintaining secrecy in transactions
  • Competing aggressively in the market
  • Maximizing profit at all costs
  • Practicing what is morally and ethically right (correct)

What is the primary goal of a business?

<p>Wealth creation through innovation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which level of business ethics is concerned with how a company interprets industry rules?

<p>Corporate Ethics (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What responsibility do businesses have to their stakeholders?

<p>Pay taxes to support public infrastructure (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of macro-level business ethics?

<p>Broader societal and political norms (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do corporations manage their employee benefits?

<p>As deductible business expenses (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do individual ethical standards influence an organization?

<p>They combine to shape the organization's stance on moral issues. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do ethical standards play in business transactions?

<p>They uphold the organization's credibility and integrity. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a situation where a business might operate contrary to its ethical standards?

<p>Complying with national censorship laws (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

At what level do ethics involve rules and standards that apply nationwide?

<p>Macro level (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary conflict faced by organizations like Google in different regions?

<p>Conflicts between national laws and ethical standards (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was Google's preference regarding censorship based on their global ethical standards?

<p>To promote unrestricted access to information (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can businesses reconcile their main purpose with their ethical implications?

<p>By balancing profit-making with social responsibility (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What principle emphasizes the importance of keeping commitments and not breaking promises lightly?

<p>Keeping Promises (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle is focused on managers acting impartially and valuing others' suggestions?

<p>Fairness (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What principle seeks to ensure that managers and employees obey all company policies and legal regulations?

<p>Obeying the Law (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle advocates fostering a caring environment for employees and stakeholders?

<p>Caring (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What principle suggests that leaders should act as role models and demonstrate integrity?

<p>Being a Leader (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary benefit of high ethical standards in an organization?

<p>It helps establish credibility and a positive image (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle of business ethics emphasizes the importance of being truthful about product quality?

<p>Integrity (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle is NOT one of the core principles of business ethics?

<p>Creativity (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is honesty considered essential for a company?

<p>It fosters trust between customers and employees (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should companies do if they make a mistake according to the principle of integrity?

<p>Admit the mistake and act accordingly (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do a company's values primarily influence?

<p>Internal conduct and stakeholder relationships (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle is NOT explicitly mentioned as part of upholding company values?

<p>Employee satisfaction (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do management demonstrate the importance of the code of ethics?

<p>By placing it in prominent and strategic locations (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a principle of a code of ethics?

<p>Corporate social responsibility (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic should company values embody?

<p>Honesty and fairness (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one benefit of managers acting ethically within a company?

<p>Enhanced company reputation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does being accountable entail for managers?

<p>Acknowledging the impact of decisions (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered an unethical business practice?

<p>Making false claims (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What consequence can a company face due to unethical practices like accounting manipulations?

<p>Potential jail time for managers (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can overbilling affect a service provider's business?

<p>It might result in lower sales. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might be a result of misleading advertisements?

<p>Potential lawsuits (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of customer service failures regarded as unethical?

<p>Refusing to honor warranties (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is accounting manipulation considered detrimental to a company?

<p>It can mislead investors and inflate company assets. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an advantage of a sole proprietorship?

<p>Complete decision-making control by the proprietor (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant disadvantage of a sole proprietorship?

<p>Unlimited liability, risking personal assets (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a partnership, what does joint liability mean?

<p>Partners are equally responsible for business debts (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a sole proprietorship?

<p>Limited liability for owners (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common issue faced by partnerships?

<p>Immediate dissolution upon partner withdrawal (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do partners typically manage their business?

<p>Partners share decisions and agree on profit sharing (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which advantage is specific to partnerships compared to sole proprietorships?

<p>Ability to pool resources and raise funds more easily (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might deter high-skilled employees from joining a sole proprietorship?

<p>Perceived instability in business operations (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one requirement of employees under Unilever's Code of Ethics?

<p>Treat everyone fairly and equally without discrimination. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle is emphasized in Nestlé's Corporate Business Principles?

<p>Integrate with diverse cultures. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Ayala Corporation require for disclosure of material information?

<p>It must be full, fair, accurate, clear, and timely. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is NOT included in Unilever's Code of Ethics regarding treatment of others?

<p>Hiring based solely on personal connections. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Nestlé recognize as a right of consumers?

<p>Access to information about the products they buy. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of employees observing good manners in the workplace?

<p>To ensure conversations do not distract other employees. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following must be registered with the Department of Trade and Industry?

<p>Sole proprietors (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What responsibility do employees have regarding company property?

<p>To safeguard it against loss, theft, and misuse. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should office conversations be conducted to maintain professionalism?

<p>By avoiding personal calls and maintaining confidentiality. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the use of communication infrastructure in a business setting?

<p>To ensure confidentiality and integrity. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must partnerships and corporations ensure regarding government compliance?

<p>Registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which behavior is considered unethical in business organizations?

<p>Using low-quality materials in products. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Employees should keep the workplace clean for which of the following reasons?

<p>To promote a pleasant and professional environment. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Business Ethics

The practice of doing what is morally and ethically right in business transactions.

Macro Level Business Ethics

The overall ethical standards and expectations within a country, taking into account its political and social systems.

Corporate Level Business Ethics

The way each company interprets and applies industry rules and ethical behavior.

Individual Level Business Ethics

An individual employee's personal moral principles and how they influence their behavior in the workplace.

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Ethical Alignment

Reconciling an employee's own ethical beliefs with the ethical standards set by their company.

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Corporation

A business structure where the company is a separate legal entity from its owners, allowing for limited liability and the ability to enter contracts, hire employees, and own property.

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Stakeholder Responsibility

The responsibility of businesses to consider the interests of all involved parties, including customers, employees, suppliers, investors, and the community.

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Profit

The primary goal of a business, aiming to create wealth through innovation and resource efficiency. It can also be seen as the reward for taking risks and running a successful business.

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Stockholders

Individuals who invest in a corporation by purchasing shares of stock, giving them ownership rights and a share of the profits.

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Limited Liability

The legal protection offered to shareholders in a corporation, where their personal assets are not at risk if the company faces financial trouble.

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Macro Level Ethics

The level of ethics that deals with rules and standards on a national scale, influencing how organizations operate.

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National Law vs. Company Ethics

When national laws conflict with an organization's ethical standards, creating a dilemma for decision-makers.

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What is a search engine?

A web-based tool that uses algorithms to crawl the internet, index web pages, and provide organized search results.

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Content Censorship

The practice of removing specific content or websites from search results, often based on government censorship or other regulations.

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Ethical Alignment (Company)

The process of aligning a company's ethical standards with its actions, ensuring consistency between values and behavior.

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Sole Proprietorship

A business structure where one person owns and manages the company, assuming all liabilities and enjoying all profits.

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Partnership

A business structure where two or more individuals share ownership, responsibilities, and profits.

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Economic Value

The assets (like money, equipment, and supplies) a business owns.

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Liabilities

Financial obligations a business owes to others, like suppliers or lenders.

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Joint Liability

The responsibility of each partner for all business debts and decisions, no matter who made them.

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Potential for Disagreements

A challenge faced by partnerships where disagreements between owners can lead to conflicts and instability.

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Limited Life

The risk of a partnership dissolving when a partner dies or leaves, potentially ending the business.

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Honesty in Business

Maintaining honesty in all business activities, from product descriptions to management decisions. It builds customer trust and employee loyalty.

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Integrity in Business

Doing the right thing consistently, even when it's difficult. Companies with high integrity are reliable and principled.

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Fairness in Business

Treating everyone fairly, including customers, employees, and suppliers. It promotes a positive work environment and fosters long-term relationships.

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Accountability in Business

Taking responsibility for actions and decisions. It involves transparency and accountability to stakeholders.

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Keeping Promises

Managers should keep their word and fulfill commitments. They shouldn't break promises or exit agreements lightly.

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Loyalty to the Company

Managers should be loyal to the company and not prioritize personal interests over company interests. They should also maintain confidentiality even after leaving the company.

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Fairness in Management

Treating everyone fairly, regardless of position or personal traits. This means avoiding bias and valuing others' input.

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Caring Workplace

Companies should prioritize the well-being of their employees and create a positive work environment that supports their needs.

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Respect in the Workplace

Showing respect to everyone, regardless of their gender, religion, or social status. Respect is earned through courteous actions and interactions.

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Company Values

A set of guiding principles that inform a company's internal conduct and external relationships with stakeholders.

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Ethical Principles

Principles that employees should follow to uphold the company's values. They typically include customer satisfaction, business profitability, continuous improvement, and corporate social responsibility.

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Management Support

The process by which management demonstrates its commitment to the code of ethics. This involves making the code readily available and visible to all employees.

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Corporate Social Responsibility

The responsibility of businesses to consider the interests of all involved parties, including customers, employees, suppliers, investors, and the community.

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Code of Ethics

A document that outlines a company's ethical standards and expected behavior.

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Accounting Manipulations

When companies manipulate their financial records to make them look better than they actually are, often to attract investors.

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Overbilling

Charging customers more than the actual cost of the service provided, misleading them about the true price.

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Misleading Advertisements

Advertisements that make promises that a product or service cannot deliver, ultimately leading to customer dissatisfaction.

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Making False Claims

Making false claims about achievements or contributions, or using unethical methods to increase production or reduce costs.

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Customer Service Failures

Failing to provide adequate customer service, such as not replacing a damaged product or honoring warranty claims.

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Accountability

Acting in a way that is responsible for one's actions and accepting the consequences of decisions, even if they are wrong.

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Ethical Environment

Ethical behavior enhances a company's reputation, builds trust with customers, and attracts top talent.

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Unethical Business Practices

Unethical practices damage a company's reputation, erode customer trust, and can lead to legal consequences for individuals and the organization.

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Government Compliance

Companies must register with relevant government agencies, such as the Department of Trade and Industry for sole proprietorships and the Securities and Exchange Commission for partnerships and corporations.

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Responsible Communication

Employees should use company communication tools responsibly for business purposes, ensuring confidentiality and integrity.

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Proper Office Decorum

Maintaining professional conduct in the workplace, including appropriate conversations, attire, and hygiene, promoting a positive and productive environment.

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Safeguarding Company Property

Employees are accountable for safeguarding company resources, preventing loss, theft, or misuse. This covers various assets, including computers, equipment, and office supplies.

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Confidentiality and Integrity

Respecting confidential information, such as customer data or sensitive business strategies, and avoiding sharing rumors that can harm the company's reputation.

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Honesty in Business Transactions

Maintaining honesty in all business activities, from product descriptions to financial transactions, building trust and credibility with customers and partners.

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Ayala Corporation's Ethical Requirements

Ayala Corporation's code requires its employees to comply with Philippine laws, follow company policies, and ensure transparency in disclosing significant information.

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Unilever's Respectful Workplace

Unilever prioritizes respect for all individuals, regardless of their background, ensuring fairness and equality in all company practices.

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Nestlé's Ethical Values

Nestlé emphasizes long-term growth over immediate profit, fosters long-term partnerships, and prioritizes ethical conduct for management and employees.

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Transparency in Business

Transparency refers to the clear and timely disclosure of important company information.

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Consumer Information Transparency

Nestlé recognizes the importance of providing consumers with clear information about their products and the company behind them.

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Study Notes

Business Ethics

  • Business ethics is the practice of what is morally and ethically right in the conduct of business in the workplace
  • It is essential for organizations to establish credibility; this attracts customers and employees
  • All members of the organization from top management down should practice ethical standards that will morally uphold the organization and sustain its integrity at all times

Levels of Business Ethics

  • To further understand the meaning of business ethics, Johnson and Scholes define three levels: macro, corporate, and individual
  • Macro: The macro level in ethics is defined as the area that represents business operations bound by the virtues and norms of the different political and social systems of every society. It clearly defines the crucial role of business and reinforces the role of the government in the delivery of benefits to its people in a morally upright and ethical manner. Every society has a code of conduct which specifies how a business activity is carried out, guided by national and international ethical standards.
  • Corporate: The corporate level in ethics represents how each company interprets the rules and standards of the industry; Managers who act morally and ethically as individuals engage in legal transactions that will benefit the company as a whole. Corporate ethics helps implementation of corporate strategies. Therefore, at the corporate level, business ethics helps the company respond to changing pressures effectively.
  • Individual: The individual level in ethics is the employee's own moral principles which guide his/her life. The combined ethical standards of every employee set the stage for the organization's moral issues. When an employee enters the organization, he/she has to reconcile his/her own personal convictions on ethics with the organization's moral and ethical standards.

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