1. The first unit (Chapter One) provides an overview of Ethics in the World of Business. We will examine various considerations that inform decision-making in a business context and highlight two characteristics of modern business: a) its economic character; and b) its organizational structure
2. The second unit (Chapter 4) concerns the problem of Whistle-Blowing. We will study the various factors that go into the decision to blow the whistle, such as company loyalty, the public good, and possible career implications for the whistle-blowers.
3. The third unit (Chapter 5) is about Business Information and Conflict of Interest. “Knowledge is power”; those who study markets have a better chance at success, but some participants in the market have insights not earned solely by hard work. What is wrong, if anything, with insider trading? What kind of ethical controls are appropriate in financial markets?
4. The fourth unit (Chapter 6) studies the issue of Privacy. We will consider how modern technology, including social media, has altered the nature of privacy in the workplace. Employers have a legitimate interest in knowing about their employees, but where is the line? Similarly, producers have access to a tremendous about of information which they use to reach consumers. Is it invasive?
5. The fifth unit (Chapter 7) examines the issues of Discrimination and Affirmative Action. How do the legitimate concerns for inclusion and diversity affect decision-making in business enterprises? What kind of value is diversity in the workplace? To what extent should business promote these values?
6. The sixth unit (Chapter 8) discusses Employee Rights. What is the justification, if any, for employment-at-will (EAW) policies in the workplace? Do workers who perform well have legitimate expectations of job security? Do they deserve due process when their employment is terminated?
7. The seventh unit (Chapter 9) discusses Health and Safety. We will consider the conditions under which employees are expected to perform their professional duties, and their right to safe and decent working conditions. Should a workplace be safe and healthy? Should a workplace be as safe and healthy as possible?
8. The eighth unit (Chapter 10) studies Marketing and Advertising. We will examine the antagonistic relationship that exists between producers and consumers. To what extent do marketers have a responsibility to provide truthful information about their products? Is the market ultimately controlled by the producers or the consumers? What right do consumers have to receive quality products and how far can marketing go to entice consumers to buy their product?
9. The ninth unit (Chapter 12) concerns Corporate Social Responsibility. Public corporations have a fiscal responsibility to their shareholders, but is profit maximization the sole objective of a corporation? Should corporations use their power and wealth to address social issues? Is corporate success defined solely by profit?
10. The tenth unit (Chapter 14) studies International Business Ethics. Is there an absolute standard for determining right and wrong? How do we balance respect for local customs with a commitment to objective moral standards? In a world of extreme wealth and extreme poverty, what do we owe to one another in our new global age?