Human Resource Management: Principle-based Theories

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary focus of Virtue Ethics?

Protecting human rights

Maximizing overall good

Developing a person's character (correct)

Following principles and rules

Which philosopher is associated with Principle-based Theories?

John Stuart Mill

Aristotle

Immanuel Kant (correct)

Alasdair MacIntyre

What is a criticism of Virtue Ethics?

Virtues can sometimes contradict each other (correct)

It contradicts human rights

It is too focused on individual character

It is too utilitarian

Which of the following is NOT a traditional example of virtue in Virtue Ethics?

Freedom Signup and view all the answers

Who is a main proponent of Virtue Ethics?

Aristotle Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of Utilitarianism?

To maximize the overall good Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of Virtue Ethics?

Virtues are taught and acquired through practice Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a recent virtue in Virtue Ethics?

Constancy Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of principle-based theories?

Judging actions as right or wrong in themselves Signup and view all the answers

Who is the main proponent of universal and duty-based principles for everyone?

Immanuel Kant Signup and view all the answers

What is the criticism of principle-based theories?

They lead to an impasse when different equally valid rights collide Signup and view all the answers

What is the contrasting approach to principle-based theories?

Consequentialist theories Signup and view all the answers

What is the central idea of consequentialist theories?

Actions should be guided by maximizing overall good Signup and view all the answers

What is Immanuel Kant's categorical imperative?

Act only according to that maxim by which you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law Signup and view all the answers

What is a limitation of principle-based theories in different cultural contexts?

Different cultures have different opinions on what should qualify as universal law Signup and view all the answers

What is an implication of Kant's maxim 'Never treat humanity merely as a means, but always as an end in itself'?

It implies that humans should never be treated as a means, but always as an end in themselves Signup and view all the answers

What is the main principle of Utilitarianism as stated by Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill?

The greatest happiness for the greatest number Signup and view all the answers

What is a criticism of Utilitarianism?

It can lead to unfair treatment of individuals Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in the 3 Steps to Ethical Behavior?

Moral Awareness Signup and view all the answers

What does Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) refer to?

A corporation's responsibilities towards society Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of HR in guiding employees' ethical behavior?

To provide instruments and actions for guiding employees' ethical behavior Signup and view all the answers

What is the third step in the 3 Steps to Ethical Behavior?

Ethical Behavior Signup and view all the answers

At which level does HR contribute to business ethics by providing codes of conduct for employees?

Individual level Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between HR and CSR?

HR adjusts practices to CSR standards Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Principle-Based Theories: Basis of Human Rights

Attempt to judge actions as right or wrong in themselves, regardless of the consequences.
Assume universal, duty-based principles or rules that apply to everyone and guide actions.
Main proponent: Immanuel Kant (1724-1804).
Kant's categorical imperative: "Act only according to that maxim (principle or rule) by which you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law."
Never treat humanity merely as a means, but always as an end in itself.

Criticism of Principle-Based Theories

Lead to an impasse when different equally valid rights collide.
Different cultures have different opinions on what should qualify as universal law.

Utilitarianism: Maximize the Overall Good

Focus on maximizing "utility" (benefits over burdens).
Actions, policies, or decisions should aim to maximize overall good.
Main proponents: Jeremy Bentham (1748-1832) and John Stuart Mill (1806-1873).
"The greatest happiness for the greatest number."

Criticism of Utilitarianism

Certain values, benefits, and costs are difficult to measure.
Solutions found could potentially violate individual rights or lead to unfair treatment.

Virtue Ethics: Behaving as a "Good Person"

Relate to a person's character as a 'good person'.
Virtues define what being a "good person" entails.
Virtues can be taught and are acquired through practice.
Traditional examples: Honesty, courage, empathy.
Recent examples: Integrity, Constancy (Alasdair MacIntyre).
Main proponent: Aristotle (385-323 BC).

Criticism of Virtue Ethics

Virtues can sometimes contradict each other (e.g. honesty, loyalty).

HRM and Business Ethics

Level of analysis: Individual, Organizational.
Individual level: HR decisions and instruments for guiding employees' ethical behavior.
3 Steps to Ethical Behavior: Moral Awareness, Moral Judgement, Ethical Behavior.
Organizational level: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), adjusting HR practices to CSR standards.

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Description

This quiz covers principle-based theories in human resource management, focusing on universal principles and rules that guide decision-making, regardless of consequences.