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

Abstract

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. 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. 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. This study and conclusion can help to improve the process of teaching business ethics at both academic and corporate levels.