11: Epilogue - Why Ethics Still Matter
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- 11.0: Introduction
- The text discusses the intersection of business ethics and personal decision-making, emphasizing that choices at work often reflect personal values. It underscores the importance of nurturing one's conscience, akin to caring for one's body, as a means to align being and doing. The development of a steadfast ethical stance is a gradual process, marked by self-doubt and mistakes but guided by wisdom and experience.
- 11.1: Business Ethics in an Evolving Environment
- The text discusses the rapid pace of change in the 21st century and its impact on business ethics, with examples illustrating ethical lapses. Rajat Gupta, a respected business leader, was convicted of insider trading, highlighting the consequences of ignoring ethical and legal standards. The General Motors case shows the cost of failing to consider stakeholders, leading to deadly consequences due to defective ignition switches.
- 11.2: Committing to an Ethical View
- The text emphasizes the importance of professional values, ethical reasoning, and strong workplace relationships in fostering ethical decisions and long-term economic success for businesses. It discusses how poor relationships and unethical behavior from superiors can lead to unethical conduct among employees, using Walmart as a case study to highlight these dynamics.
- 11.3: Becoming an Ethical Professional
- The page discusses the concept of professionalism, emphasizing ethical behavior in the workplace and the importance of aligning personal and corporate values. It notes a trend among young job seekers prioritizing ethics over salary. Companies with strong ethical cultures reportedly achieve greater financial success and employee productivity. Selecting suitable jobs involves evaluating company values, and ethical leadership is pivotal.
- 11.4: Making a Difference in the Business World
- The page emphasizes the importance of professional identity grounded in ethical behavior and personal values, as opposed to merely pursuing wealth. It discusses the role of individual ethical choice in shaping organizations and highlights the significance of creating a personal mission statement to guide one's career and actions.