Ethics of Business or Ethics for Business? Two Models for Teaching Business Ethics

Abstract

Purpose: the aim of this article is to present two models for teaching business ethics: ethics of business and ethics for business. In the article, I defend the thesis that business ethics taught in corporations (ethics for business) is not a simple continuation of academic instruction (ethics of business) and should not be treated as such.

Methodology to justify the foregoing thesis, I refer to both theoretical and empirical research carried out by business ethicists, as well as to my own experience as an academic teacher.

Findings: taking into consideration the differences that occur between the two models of teaching business ethics, and also the threats associated with implementing ethics programs in companies, I conclude that in-company business ethics instruction does not constitute a continuation of academic instruction.