Ch 3: Foundational Ethical Theories for Business

1. Sources of Ethical Standards in Business

In this lesson, we'll examine how philosophers and ethicists have helped us develop ethical standards, and we'll also discuss some of the critical questions on which ethics are based.

2. Virtue Ethics: Strengths & Weaknesses

Virtue ethics are guiding principles based on the type of people humans should be. This form of ethics has been practiced by famous people throughout history and is seen as a positive outlook by many. However, there are many questions left unanswered when examined more closely.

3. Virtue Ethics vs. Deontological Ethics

In this lesson, you'll learn about Aristotle's philosophy of virtue ethics and Kant's deontological philosophy of ethics. You'll also learn how to distinguish between these two competing ethical conceptualizations.

4. Virtue Ethics in the Workplace: Approach & Examples

Virtue ethics in the workplace is based on each individual employee's virtues and how those virtues affect their behavior within the work environment. This lesson will provide an overview of virtue ethics and offer some examples.

5. What is Utilitarianism? - Definition & Theory

Explore the ethical theory of utilitarianism, founded by Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill. Then test your understanding of how the principles of this theory work through a short quiz.

6. Virtue Ethics vs. Utilitarianism

The primary difference between utilitarianism and virtue ethics is the mode and means of human fulfillment. This lesson describes these two philosophical views and explores their positions on the individual versus the community and contemplation versus action.

7. Natural Rights: Definition, Theory & Examples

In this lesson we will look at natural rights. We will learn the definition and the theory that surround these rights. As the lesson progresses, examples will be given, followed by a summary and a quiz.

8. Human Rights & Moral Duties: Definition & Relationship

The world of ethics can be difficult to navigate. What are rights? What are duties? Do each affect you the same? Explore these ideas and test your understanding with a brief quiz.

9. Theory of Justice & Ethics of Care in Organizations

A traditional theory of justice and an ethic of care are contrasting paradigms. This lesson explores the similarities and differences between the two theories and their application in the real world.

10. How Moral Philosophies Relate to Business Ethics

Much of business ethics finds its foundation in various moral philosophies. In this lesson, you'll learn about some of the important moral philosophies that have influenced ethics in business.

11. Ethical Theories in Business: Applications & Differences

Defining ethical models is easier than actually putting them into action. This lesson explores the practical ways businesses have demonstrated their commitment to ethical behavior in the real world.