REL460: Ethics of the Marketplace

Does a corporation have responsibility beyond itself? Should the bottom line trump ethical considerations? Who or what protects the public interest?

Does a corporation have responsibility beyond itself? Should the bottom line trump ethical considerations? Who or what protects the public interest? This course considers these questions in the world of business and management. Students debate moral aspects of institutional policies and practices, in regard to the environment, fair labor, executive compensation, globalization and international sweatshops, consumerism, and its opponents, race and gender issues in the market, advertising, insider trading, whistle blowing, and the corporate responsibilities of multinational firms. Readings will include ethical theory, along with multiple case studies, films, and current news articles involving ethical issues in business.