Business Ethics Chapter 2

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary focus of the chapter?

  • The impact of the Fourth Industrial Revolution on business ethics and cultural diversity. (correct)
  • The historical development of ethical approaches.
  • The importance of universal principles for human-centric business practices.
  • The application of ethical principles in various business contexts.

What two scenarios are mentioned by Melé (2009) as challenges to business ethics when confronted with cultural diversity?

  • When there is a clash between personal religious beliefs and workplace culture and when a company's values conflict with local values. (correct)
  • When companies struggle to understand and navigate different legal systems and when cultural differences lead to misunderstandings and conflicts.
  • When companies operate in countries with high levels of corruption and when they fail to adapt to local customs.
  • When local practices are incompatible with international ethical standards and when employees are expected to adhere to company values despite personal beliefs.

Why is cultural diversity considered particularly relevant to business ethics?

  • Different cultures have different ethical frameworks, leading to varying moral principles and practices.
  • Cultural differences impact consumer preferences and consumption patterns, influencing global marketing and sales strategies.
  • Globalization has led to increased intercultural interactions and collaborations, necessitating ethical considerations in managing diverse teams.
  • All of the above. (correct)
  • None of the above.

How does cultural diversity complicate ethical decision-making in business?

<p>It requires companies to consider different cultural perspectives in decision-making. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the chapter's discussion on cultural diversity, what is a key challenge for businesses?

<p>Balancing the need to maintain ethical standards while adapting to local business practices. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Rachels, what is a commonality that all societies share, regardless of their cultural differences?

<p>The need for laws against lying and murder (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can businesses effectively address ethical challenges arising from cultural diversity?

<p>By promoting a culture of understanding and respect for different cultural values. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of cultural imperialism, as defined by Tomlinson?

<p>The imposition of a dominant culture's values and practices on other cultures (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the text connect cultural imperialism to business practices?

<p>Companies operating in foreign countries often impose their own culture on the local workforce and operations (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of universal principles in the context of international business ethics?

<p>They provide a framework for ethical decision-making that transcends cultural boundaries. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the relevance of the work of the United Nations and other international agencies in the context of business ethics?

<p>They contribute to developing universal ethical principles and frameworks for responsible business conduct. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a critique of cultural imperialism, as discussed in the text?

<p>It can lead to the suppression of local cultures and traditions (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main concern raised by the question about a manager working in a country where women are not granted leadership roles?

<p>The potential ethical dilemma of adapting to discriminatory practices (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the text, what is the likely implication of the statement that cultural imperialism is a form of Neo-Colonialism?

<p>The effects of cultural imperialism are similar to the colonial power dynamics of the past (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Based on the provided information, what is the core distinction between cultural relativism and cultural imperialism?

<p>Relativism values cultural diversity while imperialism seeks to dominate other cultures (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most significant problem with cultural imperialism?

<p>The imposition of a dominant culture's values and practices on others (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle encourages businesses to take proactive steps to minimize potential environmental harm?

<p>Principle 7: Support a precautionary approach to environmental challenges (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle addresses the importance of ensuring fair and equitable treatment in the workplace?

<p>Principle 6: The elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle emphasizes the importance of promoting environmentally friendly solutions?

<p>Principle 9: Encourage the development and diffusion of environmentally friendly technologies (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which UN document serves as the foundation for Principle 3?

<p>ILO Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, 1998 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the UN Global Compact, businesses should avoid being involved in which of the following?

<p>Human rights abuses (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle emphasizes the importance of protecting children from exploitation in the workplace?

<p>Principle 5: The effective abolition of child labour (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a principle outlined in the UN Global Compact?

<p>Businesses should support the development and diffusion of renewable energy sources (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following principles is most directly related to the concept of environmental sustainability?

<p>Principle 9: Encourage the development and diffusion of environmentally friendly technologies (A), Principle 8: Undertake initiatives to promote greater environmental responsibility (B), Principle 7: Support a precautionary approach to environmental challenges (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the main goal of the United Nations Global Compact?

<p>To align business strategies with universal principles (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following areas is NOT one of the Four Areas outlined in the UN Global Compact?

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

The Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact are derived from which of the following documents?

<p>The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who proposed the initiative for the United Nations Global Compact?

<p>Kofi Annan (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which organization’s declaration influences the Labour principles of the UN Global Compact?

<p>International Labour Organization (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the UN Global Compact encourage businesses to do?

<p>Take actions that advance societal goals (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a principle stated in the UN Global Compact regarding the environment?

<p>Promote sustainable environmental practices (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The UN Global Compact explicitly addresses which of the following issues?

<p>Anti-corruption actions (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main focus of ethical pluralism according to Crane and Matten?

<p>To reach a consensus on basic principles within a social context (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does universalism argue about moral principles?

<p>There are absolute moral principles valid across all cultures (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does moderate universalism differ from absolute universalism?

<p>It recognizes universal values but applies them with practical wisdom (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What potential risk is associated with ethical pluralism?

<p>It risks being overly pragmatic without theoretical understanding (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of dialogue between cultures according to the content?

<p>To promote understanding and moral progress (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do the extreme positions of cultural relativism and cultural imperialism represent?

<p>Polarized understandings of cultural interactions (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What principle underlies the concept of moral pluralism?

<p>Agreement on certain principles can coexist with diversity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must a manager consider when navigating cultural differences?

<p>Engaging in open dialogue to find common ground (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the UN Global Compact?

<p>To support companies in aligning with responsible business practices (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What framework did John Ruggie propose in relation to business and human rights?

<p>The Protect, Respect and Remedy Framework (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which period did the UN Global Compact support the Millennium Goals?

<p>2000 to 2015 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does PRME stand for in the context of responsible management education?

<p>Principles for Responsible Management Education (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the emphasis of the Sustainable Development Goals supported by the UN Global Compact?

<p>Collaboration and innovation for societal benefit (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What year was the Principles for Responsible Management Education initiative founded?

<p>2007 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What primary sectors does the UN Global Compact’s Ten Principles cover?

<p>Human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which organization supports the Principles for Responsible Management Education?

<p>The United Nations (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Fourth Industrial Revolution

A period of rapid technological advancements reshaping industries and societies.

Cultural Diversity

The presence of multiple cultural groups within a business environment.

Business Ethics

Principles and standards guiding behavior in the business world.

Globalization

The process of increased interconnectedness among countries, affecting cultures and economies.

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Moral Clashes

Conflicts that arise when personal or cultural values oppose workplace norms.

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Local vs. Corporate Values

The potential tension between regional cultural values and a company's operational values.

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Human-centric Business

A business approach prioritizing people’s needs and ethical considerations.

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Universal Principles

Foundational ethical guidelines applicable across cultures and organizations.

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Cultural Dialogue

Communication between different cultures that can lead to moral progress.

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Cultural Relativism

The belief that a person's beliefs and activities should be understood based on that person's own culture.

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Cultural Imperialism

Belief that one culture is superior and should impose its values on others.

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Ethical Pluralism

Acceptance of different moral convictions while seeking consensus on basic principles.

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Universalism

The belief in absolute moral principles applicable to all cultures.

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Moderate Universalism

Recognition of universal ethical values which are applied with wisdom and context.

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Pragmatism in Ethics

A practical approach to morals that may avoid theoretical concerns about cultures.

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Shared Principles

Common values that cultures can recognize and accept collectively.

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Moral rules

Basic standards of right and wrong shared by all viable cultures.

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Neo-Colonialism

Modern form of cultural imperialism often seen in business contexts.

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Cultural practices

The behaviors and norms that define a culture's lifestyle.

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Imposition

The act of forcing ideas or values from one culture onto another.

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Exceptions to rules

Situations where cultures allow deviations from core moral standards.

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Cultural dominance

The superiority of one culture over others, often leading to cultural imperialism.

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United Nations Global Compact

A call for companies to align with universal principles on human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption.

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Ten Principles

Principles from the UN Global Compact divided into four categories: Human Rights, Labour, Environment, Anti-Corruption.

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Human Rights Principles

Principles ensuring businesses respect and protect human rights in operations.

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Labour Principles

Principles guiding fair labor practices and workers' rights.

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Environment Principles

Principles that encourage businesses to promote sustainable environmental practices.

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Anti-Corruption Principles

Principles aimed at promoting ethical business conduct and preventing corruption.

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Kofi Annan's Proposal

The initiative that launched the UN Global Compact to set global business standards.

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John Gerald Ruggie

Coordinator who worked on developing the UN Global Compact.

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Principle 1

Businesses should support and respect human rights as proclaimed internationally.

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Principle 2

Businesses must ensure they are not complicit in human rights abuses.

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Principle 3

Businesses should uphold freedom of association and collective bargaining.

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Principle 4

Businesses must eliminate all forms of forced and compulsory labour.

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Principle 5

Effective abolition of child labour is essential for ethical business.

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Principle 6

Eliminate discrimination in employment and occupation.

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Principle 7

Support a precautionary approach to environmental challenges.

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Principle 10

Businesses should work against all forms of corruption, including extortion and bribery.

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UN Global Compact

An initiative supporting businesses to operate responsibly with principles on human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption.

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Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

A set of goals adopted by the UN to address global challenges through 2030, emphasizing collaboration and innovation.

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Protect, Respect and Remedy Framework

A framework proposed by John Ruggie for businesses to respect human rights and provide remedies when violated.

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Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME)

An initiative that promotes sustainability in business education through seven guiding principles.

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Millennium Goals

A set of eight international development goals established following the Millennium Summit of the United Nations in 2000.

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Collaboration and Innovation

Key strategies encouraged by the UN Global Compact to achieve broader societal goals.

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Guiding Principles for Business and Human Rights

A publication that provides frameworks for businesses to ensure they protect human rights.

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International Labour Organization (ILO) Standards

Global labor standards set by ILO aimed at promoting fair and safe working conditions.

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Study Notes

Chapter 2: Future of Work, Cultural Diversity, and Universal Principles for Business

  • The previous chapter explored ethical approaches throughout history and applied them in a business context. Business decisions must consider historical and social contexts.
  • The Fourth Industrial Revolution is relevant to business ethics.
  • Cultural diversity is a key aspect of conducting business ethically. Globalisation makes cultural diversity more complex.
  • Local cultural customs can conflict with or challenge the values and practices of businesses, leading to difficult decisions for managers.
  • Options for dealing with cultural clashes include:
    • Adopting local customs ("When in Rome, do as the Romans do")
    • Applying home country laws
    • Following universal principles
  • Cultural relativism rejects universal values and views cultures as simply different without judgment. It's criticised because:
    • Cultural diversity doesn't prove cultural relativism
    • Moral judgements of cultures can be influenced by history and false beliefs.
    • Cultural diversity includes common values and universal principles
    • Certain cultural practices may be objectively worse than others
    • Relativism prevents moral progress.
  • Cultural imperialism is the opposite of relativism. It involves imposing one dominant culture on others. It's often linked to neo-colonialism.
  • Moral pluralism acknowledges different moral viewpoints while seeking agreement on basic principles. Ethical pluralism is widely accepted. It is pragmatic; it addresses the risk of merely being pragmatic. Universalist positions argue that absolute moral principles exist, regardless of culture.

Ethical Universalism and Principles Valid for All

  • The principle of human dignity states that every person has inherent worth, not because of actions but because of existence.
  • Kant's categorical imperative emphasizes treating people as ends in themselves, not merely means to an end.
  • Human dignity is a universal principle applicable to all people.
  • The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) affirms this fundamental principle.
  • Businesses must respect human dignity in all decisions.
  • The Golden Rule ("Treat others as you want to be treated") reflects shared human dignity.
  • Stewardship regarding the environment is becoming crucial in business decisions.
  • Business needs to respect the environment as a shared space and acknowledge its impact on future generations.

International Standards for Business

  • International standards provide frameworks for ethically sound business practices worldwide.
  • The UN Global Compact establishes ten principles, including human rights and environmental protection, as global standards for ethical business conduct globally.
  • The ILO issues standards to protect workers' rights, including freedom of association and elimination of child labour.
  • These principles offer guidelines for businesses around the globe to ensure ethical considerations in their business operations.
  • Global standards are aimed at safeguarding the interests of individuals and improving the long term sustainability of business practice.

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