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Toward a Model of Cross-Cultural Business Ethics: The Impact of Individualism and Collectivism on the Ethical Decision-Making Process

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Abstract

In this paper, we explore the impact of individualism and collectivism on three basic aspects of ethical decision making – the perception of moral problems, moral reasoning, and behavior. We argue that the inclusion of business practices within the moral domain by the individual depends partly upon individualism and collectivism. We also propose a pluralistic approach to post-conventional moral judgment that includes developmental paths appropriate for individualist and collectivist cultures. Finally, we argue that the link between moral judgment and behavior is related to individualism and collectivism.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Schulich School of Business, York University, Toronto, Canada

    Bryan W. Husted

  2. Instituto de Empresa, Serrano, 105, 28006, Madrid, Spain

    David B. Allen

  3. 10 Queens Quay W Ph 12, Toronto, ON, Canada, M5J 2R9

    Bryan W. Husted

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  1. Bryan W. Husted
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  2. David B. Allen
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Correspondence to Bryan W. Husted.

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Husted, B.W., Allen, D.B. Toward a Model of Cross-Cultural Business Ethics: The Impact of Individualism and Collectivism on the Ethical Decision-Making Process. J Bus Ethics 82, 293–305 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10551-008-9888-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10551-008-9888-8

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