Business ethics, as an academic discipline directed at influencing business itself, has now developed into a sophisticated interdisciplinary enquiry, with its own journals, societies, and specialist practitioners. The contributors reflect on the state of, and prospects for, the field of business ethics. While the scope of each chapter is intentionally broad, the particular perspectives adopted, themes addressed, by the various authors display considerable variety. The order of the chapters reflects a movement from the armchair to the field, with insights from a number of perspectives including philosophy, anthropology, management, history, social science methodology, and education. Each contributor is a recognised expert in their own particular area. The book is essential reading for all interested in researching the development of business ethics. It will also be of benefit to students and business people interested in the development of business ethics as a field of study.
1. Introduction: Practising Theory ; 2. A Defence of Philosophical Business Ethics ; 3. Self-Interest, Ethics, and the Profit Motive ; 4. One Philosopher's Approach to Business Ethics ; 5. The Responsibilities of a Business Manager ; 6. Armchair Applied Philosophy and Business Ethics ; 7. Research in Real Worlds: The Empirical Contribution to Business Ethics ; 8. Commercial Ethics: A Victorian Perspective on the Practice of Theory ; 9. The Potential for a Universal Business Ethics ; 10. Education and Business ; 11. Teaching Ethics to Managers: Contemporary Problems and a Traditional Solution