BUSINESS MANAGEMENT ETHICS STUDY MATERIAL

ETHICS

1. UNIT-II MORALITY DR. SHEETAL CHHABRA

2. Morality Morality refers to the principles, values, and rules of right and wrong that guide human behavior. It is often shaped by culture, religion, tradition, and personal beliefs . Example: Not lying, helping the poor, respecting elders, etc., are moral rules in many societies.

3. Morality Morality is based on utilitarianism: the greatest happiness for the greatest number. John Stuart Mil Morality is a social fact, shaped by collective norms and traditions. Émile Durkheim Morality is based on duty; actions are moral if they follow universal laws. Immanuel Kant Ethics is about cultivating virtues (like courage, justice, temperance) to achieve the good life. Aristotle

4. Ethics Ethics is the systematic and philosophical study of morality . While morality tells us what people believe is right or wrong, ethics critically examines why something is considered right or wrong. Example: Ethics would ask questions like: Is lying always wrong? Can it be justified in some situations?

5. Difference Between Ethics and Morality Aspect Morality Ethics Nature Practical rules of right and wrong Theoretical study of right and wrong Source Culture, religion, social norms Philosophy, rational analysis Application Everyday conduct Academic, professional, legal contexts Example “Killing is wrong.” “Under what conditions, if any, is killing justified (e.g., self-defense, war)?” Morality = practical rules of good/bad, shaped by culture/religion. Ethics = philosophical study and reasoning about morality.

6. Importance of Morality Guidance in Decision-Making: Morality provides individuals with a moral compass that helps them navigate complex situations and make ethical choices. It assists in determining the best course of action based on principles of fairness, justice, and empathy. Social Cohesion: Shared moral values within a society promote unity and cooperation. When people adhere to a common code of ethics, it fosters trust and reduces conflicts, leading to a more harmonious community.

7. Importance of Morality Personal Development: Following moral principles contributes to personal growth and character development. It helps individuals become more responsible, compassionate, and considerate, leading to a better sense of self and improved relationships with others. Preservation of Human Dignity: Morality emphasizes the inherent worth and dignity of every individual. It safeguards against actions that may harm or violate the rights of others, promoting a sense of respect for human life and well-being.

8. Importance of Morality Ethical Progress: A moral framework provides a basis for evaluating societal norms and practices. As societies evolve, morality helps challenge outdated or harmful practices and promotes progress toward more equitable and just systems.

9. Importance of Morality Ethical Progress: A moral framework provides a basis for evaluating societal norms and practices. As societies evolve, morality helps challenge outdated or harmful practices and promotes progress toward more equitable and just systems. Consider the following scenario

10. Moral Behavior Moral behavior refers to human actions that align with accepted principles of right and wrong in a society. It is the practical expression of morality —what people actually do based on moral rules and values.

11. Moral Behavior - Characteristics Integrity: Moral behavior is grounded in honesty and truthfulness. Individuals who exhibit integrity are transparent and consistent in their actions, maintaining their principles even when faced with challenges or temptations. Empathy and Compassion: Moral behavior involves considering the feelings and perspectives of others. Empathetic individuals can put themselves in someone else's shoes and act with kindness and understanding.

12. Moral Behavior - Characteristics Respect for Others: Treating others with respect is a fundamental aspect of moral behavior. It involves recognizing the intrinsic worth of every individual and valuing their rights and dignity. Socially Approved: Actions are considered moral if they align with cultural, religious, or societal standards. Promotes Human Welfare: Moral behavior benefits others and promotes harmony. Universal in Nature: moral values (truthfulness, kindness, justice) are found in all societies.

13. Moral Behavior - Characteristics Responsibility: Individuals who engage in moral behavior take responsibility for their actions and their consequences. They acknowledge their role in upholding societal values and norms. Non-Harming: Moral behavior avoids causing harm or suffering to others. This principle extends to physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of human interactions.

14. Moral Behavior - Characteristics Positive Role Modeling: Individuals who consistently exhibit moral behavior become role models for others, inspiring them to emulate ethical conduct and fostering a virtuous cycle of responsible behavior. Ethical Decision-Making: Moral behavior guides individuals in making difficult decisions by providing a framework for evaluating options based on principles of right and wrong.

15. Moral System A moral system is a set of rules of decent behavior known to all human beings by reason and conscience. C. S. Lewis A moral system is the effort to guide one’s conduct by reason while giving equal weight to the interests of everyone affected by one’s actions. James Rachels The moral system is one that seeks the greatest happiness of the greatest number, as the ultimate standard of right and wrong. John Stuart Mill

16. Moral System A moral system is a structured set of values, principles, rules, and standards that guide human behavior in distinguishing right from wrong. It is the framework through which societies and individuals evaluate actions and make ethical decisions. In simple terms: It is the organized way in which morality works in society.

17. Moral System - Components Values – Core beliefs about what is good or desirable (e.g., honesty, justice, kindness). Principles – General guidelines that shape behavior (e.g., respect for human dignity). Norms & Rules – Specific do’s and don’ts (e.g., don’t steal, tell the truth). Conscience – Inner sense of right and wrong that checks human behavior. Social Institutions – Family, religion, culture, and law that reinforce moral standards. Sanctions/Rewards – Praise, acceptance, or punishment used to encourage moral conduct.

18. Moral System - Characteristics Normative: It prescribes how people ought to behave. Universal: Though cultures differ, some moral rules (truth, justice) are universal. Regulative: Provides order, harmony, and stability in society. Dynamic: Can change with time (e.g., attitudes toward slavery, gender equality). Rational: Must be based on reason and fairness, not just authority or fear.

19. Moral System - Characteristics Normative: It prescribes how people ought to behave. Universal: Though cultures differ, some moral rules (truth, justice) are universal. Regulative: Provides order, harmony, and stability in society. Dynamic: Can change with time (e.g., attitudes toward slavery, gender equality). Rational: Must be based on reason and fairness, not just authority or fear.

20. Moral System - Examples Family Moral System: Ravi, a 10-year-old boy, broke his mother’s vase while playing. When his father asked what happened, Ravi was tempted to blame his younger sister. But then he remembered what his parents always taught him: “In this family, we never lie. We must always speak the truth.” Ravi admitted his mistake. His father was upset about the vase but praised Ravi for his honesty. Moral System in Action: Family values (honesty) guided Ravi’s behavior, and he was rewarded with trust and encouragement.

21. Moral System - Examples Professional Moral System: Dr. Meera was treating an elderly patient who couldn’t afford expensive medicines. A pharmaceutical company offered her a bonus if she prescribed their costly drugs. She thought of her professional oath: “A doctor’s duty is to protect life and health above all.” Instead of choosing money, she prescribed affordable medicines that worked just as well. The patient blessed her with gratitude. Moral System in Action: The professional value of patient welfare guided her decision, showing integrity in medical practice.

22. Moral System - Examples Social Moral System: In a small village, heavy rains caused flooding, leaving some families without food. Ramesh, a farmer, had stored plenty of rice. He could have kept it for himself, but the community believed in “helping neighbors in need.” So, Ramesh shared his rice with the hungry families. Later, when his own crops were damaged, the villagers came together to support him. Moral System in Action: The social norm of mutual help created harmony and trust within the community.

23. Values Vs Morality Vs Ethics Aspect Values Morality Ethics Nature Beliefs/ideals (what is important) Rules/norms (what is right/wrong) Study of morality (why right/wrong) Source Personal, cultural, religious Society, religion, culture Philosophy, reasoning, reflection Flexibility Highly personal, can differ between individuals More rigid, socially enforced Analytical, seeks universal justification Focus What we consider important How we act in real situations Why actions are justified as right/wrong Example “I value honesty.” “Lying is wrong.” “Is lying wrong if it saves a life?”

24. Impression Management The deliberate (often semi-conscious) process of shaping how others see us —our traits, motives, competence, and morality through words, actions, appearance, settings, and associations. Erving Goffman Why People Manage Impressions? Getting jobs, promotions, dates, votes, clients. Belonging, status, credibility, likeability.

25. Impression Management Strategies Five impression management strategies explained by Jones & Pittman (1982) . These are ways people try to influence how others see them . Intimidation Ingratiation Self-Promotion Supplication Exemplification

26. Impression Management Strategies Intimidation: A strategy where a person tries to make others see them as powerful, dangerous, or capable of causing harm . Goal: Gain compliance through fear or authority. Tactics: Threats, showing anger, highlighting power, strict rules. Example: A boss says, “If this project isn’t finished by tomorrow, people will lose their bonuses.” Useful in crisis or enforcement situations, but risky because it can damage trust and relationships.

27. Impression Management Strategies Ingratiation: Trying to be liked and accepted by others through friendliness and flattery. Goal: Gain social approval and cooperation. Tactics: Compliments, agreeing with others, doing small favors, showing enthusiasm. Example: An employee tells their manager, “Your leadership really inspires the team,” before asking for a lighter workload. Works well if sincere, but backfires if it seems manipulative.

28. Impression Management Strategies Self-Promotion: Presenting oneself as competent, skilled, and capable . Goal: Gain respect and recognition for achievements. Tactics: Talking about qualifications, highlighting successes, emphasizing experience. Example: In a job interview, a candidate says, “I led a team that increased sales by 30% in six months.” Effective in professional contexts but can backfire if seen as arrogant or boastful.

29. Impression Management Strategies Supplication: Presenting oneself as weak, needy, or dependent so that others will help or protect you. Goal: Gain assistance or avoid responsibility. Tactics: Highlighting struggles, downplaying ability, seeking sympathy. Example: A student says, “I’m terrible at math, can you please help me with this assignment?” Can be effective short-term, but may damage credibility and respect if overused.

30. Impression Management Strategies Exemplification: Presenting oneself as morally worthy, dedicated, or self-sacrificing . Goal: Gain admiration and respect by showing integrity and commitment. Tactics: Staying late at work, volunteering, demonstrating moral behavior, stressing dedication. Example: An employee always comes early, stays late, and says, “I just want to give my best for the company.” Builds respect but can annoy others if it seems like showing off.

31. Impression Management Strategies Strategy Image Projected Goal Example Intimidation Powerful, threatening Gain compliance/fear Boss threatens punishment Ingratiation Likeable, friendly Gain approval/love Flattering a teacher Self-promotion Competent, skilled Gain respect/recognition Highlighting achievements Supplication Needy, helpless Gain help/avoid duty Pretending inability Exemplification Dedicated, moral, virtuous Gain admiration/trust Sacrificing personal time