Business Ethics

Learning Activity #1 - Compare and contrast Moral Universalism (and the so-called Universal Moral Code) with Ethical Relativism.

How do the three ethical theories we have been concentrating on (Kant's deontological approach, the teleological Utilitarian approach and the teleological Virtue Ethical approach) fit within the consideration of morality as either universal or relative? (Remember that "relative" is always relative to something, whether relative to a particular culture or to the particular, subjective individual)

Is there a way for us to reconcile these two apparently dichotomous beliefs? If so, how? If not, how do we live together with those who do not share our ethical beliefs? Knowing human nature, will not the lowest or least burdensome standard always prevail?

Learning Activity #2 - Respond to the Case Study in this week's reading, under Theme 2 - Subtheme 2: "Unchartered Territory: When Innovation Outpaces Regulation."

It will be up to you how to determine how you will approach your response and ethical analysis in this Learning Activity; I'm not going to post any pointed questions to help direct your thoughts this time. This will be good practice for the approach you will take for your final project!

Alternative Learning Activity #2 - As an alternative to responding to the Case Study above, respond instead to the case described in MIT Technology Review: "Why Self-Driving Cars must be Programmed to Kill" (October 22, 2015). It will be up to you how to determine how you will approach your response and ethical analysis in this Learning Activity; I'm not going to post any pointed questions to help direct your thoughts. Again - this will be good practice for the approach you will take for your final project!