Business Ethics

Unit aims

To provide the learner with an introduction to business ethics and how they are used by businesses to plan and manage their business goals, objectives and activities.

Learning outcomes

1 Understand different ethical perspectives in business

1.1 Explain the background and development of theoretical ethical approaches

1.2 Compare and contrast absolute and relative ethics

1.3 Explain the ethical issues which can affect the operational activities of a business

2 Understand business objectives from an ethical perspective

2.1 Explain how business objectives are affected by ethical considerations

2.2 Evaluate the implications for a business and its stakeholders to operate ethically

3 Understand ethics in workplace relationships

3.1 Assess the role of the company acting as moral agent

3.2 Analyse the development of mechanisms for achieving employee involvement and empowerment

4 Be able to assess a current ethical issue in a business

4.1 Research a current ethical issue affecting a selected business

4.2 Report on how the business could improve the ethics of their operations whilst meeting objectives and ensuring good employer/employee relationships

4.3 Design a suitable ethical code