Ethics in the Workplace: Social Responsibility and Accountability

by Anne Fielder, Ph.D.

Overview

Setting the Stage: Questions to Think About

This module plan gives background on the changing ethical environment in the world of work and briefly discusses some ethical models and legislation. Students are then given several exercises where they can apply these principles to a setting/issue that they can relate to.

1. What ethical responsibility does someone have when he or she has observed someone else do something unethical?

2. At what point does an individual become accountable for, or complict in, the actions of another person?

Introduction

There are a number of ethical issues facing managers and employees today. In the aftermath of corporate scandals, companies are being held to higher standards. Also, employees are being held accountable for their actions. As employees, students will be faced with situations that will test their honesty, integrity, and sense of fairness and responsibility.