Introductory description

This is an elective module available for WBS and non-WBS students. To find detailed availability and to apply for this module, log in to my.wbs.ac.uk using your normal IT login details and apply via the my.wbs module application system. Once you’ve secured a place on my.wbs you should apply via your home department’s usual process, which usually takes place via eVision. Note that you do not require the module leader’s permission to study a WBS module, so please do not contact them to request it.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Introduction to business ethics and contemporary ethical dilemmas
How narratives, habits and non-reflectiveness affect ethics in organizations
Utilitarian ethics and organizations
Kantian ethics and organizations
Virtue ethics and organizations
Freedom and rights: liberalism and egalitarianism
Marx, commodity fetishism and inhumane working conditions
Feminist Ethics
Ethics and Emotions in Organisations
The future of work; effective labour

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of core theories of ethics.
• Understand key contemporary ethical issues faced by businesses and organisations.
• Utilise critical thinking skills in analyzing ethical dilemmas elicited/explored with the research project
• Understand/have an experience of teamwork and research skills/activities

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Subject specific skills

Apply ethical theories to analyse critically contemporary ethical issues faced by businesses and other organisations.
Understand current organizational responses (practices, procedures, etc.) to ethical dilemmas.

Transferable skills

Demonstrate improved verbal communication skills.
Demonstrate improved written communication skills.