Discussion Question

Discussion Question Order Description PART 1: In essence, this is a business ethics course. What kinds of topics would you expect to see in a business ethics course like this one? PART 2: Hooker lays out 5 myths related to business ethics. Which one of those myths resonates most strongly with your experience, and why? Hooker 5 myths: Myth 1 - We learn ethics as little kids. When we reach adulthood, it is too late to change our behavior. Myth 2 - There is no point in studying ethics, because we all know what's right. It's just a matter of doing it. Myth 3 - Business ethics is simple. Just don't do anything you wouldn't want to appear on the front page of the newspaper, or you wouldn't want your mother to know about. Myth 4 - There is no point in analyzing ethical issues, because ethics is just a matter of opinion. I have my view and you have yours, and that's the end of it. Myth 5 - Studying ethics will have no effect, because human beings are motivated only by self-interest, not ethical theories. We learned this long ago from Adam Smith, who observed that self-interest drives the market system and makes it work to our benefit, as if guided by an invisible hand.