Ethical Issues in Business

Philosophy 202

Course Description: What types of ethical dilemmas arise in the world of business? How do we recognize these issues and resolve them? This course will introduce students to business ethics through the discussion of ethical theories and many of the various ethical issues particular to business, such as corporate social responsibility, honesty and disclosure, job discrimination, and the effect of industry on the environment. In the process, the students will improve their reasoning skills by critically analyzing various moral claims and arguing in support of their own views.

Texts: 1. Donaldson, Werhane, and Cording eds. Ethical Issues in Business. 7th ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall, 2002.

2. Donaldson and Gini, eds. Case Studies in Business Ethics. 4th ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall, 1996.

3. Selected Readings

Grading: Attendance and

Class Participation 10%

Short Daily Quizzes 10%

Group Assignments 30%

Exams and

Take-Home Quizzes 50%

A 93-100

A- 90-92

B+ 87-89

B 83-86

B- 80-82

C+ 77-79

C 73-76

C- 70-72

D+ 67-69

D 60-66

F 0-60

1. Exams and Take-Home Quizzes: There will be two take-home quizzes and two in class exams. These will include an essay question and several short-answer questions. Exams will be taken in the classroom, and in accordance with the guidelines of the honor code. I will only allow each student to make up only one exam: You must have a valid excuse and make it up before the next session of class. Contact me as early as possible to make arrangements.

2. Group Assignments: There will be several group assignments, including presentations and the discussion of various issues. Time will be provided for this during class, but these assignments will require additional time outside of class.

3. Class Participation and Daily Quizzes: Most of our class time will be spent in discussion, and each student’s participation is encouraged and expected. Informed participation requires a careful reading of assigned texts ahead of class. In order to encourage this, a short quiz on the reading assignment will be given at the beginning of every class. No make-ups will be allowed.

4. Attendance: Prompt and consistent attendance is expected and is in your best interest because poor attendance and tardies will inevitably affect your other grades. Also, I weigh attendance heavily when giving final grades in borderline cases. Excessive absences will reduce your grade: If you have more than 3 absences, your final grade will be reduced one letter grade. You must have less than 6 absences to pass the class. Tardies and leaving early will be counted toward your absences. If you miss a class, I recommend that you make arrangements to copy the notes of another student.