Abstract
This paper summarizes three major approaches to the problem of business ethics. Comparisons and contrasts are drawn between the moralistic approach of Berhman, the social contract theory of Nash, and a comprehensive systems approach as articulated by Elbing. In the final section, some attempt is made to indicate how these models may be implemented into managerial policy decision making process by the use of group work and ascending communication. Some consideration of using organizational structure to implement ethical concerns is indicated.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
Bibliography
Behrman, Jack A.: Discourses on Ethics and Business, Olegeschlager, Gunn, & Hain, Inc., Cambridge, Mass., 1981.
Clasen, Earl A.: ‘Controlling Market Behavior in the Large Firm’, in Ethics and Marketing, pp. 13–23. Ed. by J. Russell Nelson and Aubrey Strickland, University of Minnesota, April, n.p., 1966.
Elbing, Alvar O., Jr. and Elbing, Carol J.: The Value Issue of Business, McGraw-Hill, New York, 1967.
Nash, Laura L.: ‘Ethics Without the Sermon’, Harvard Business Review 59 (November-December, 1981), 78–90.
Walton, Clarence C.: ‘The Executive Ethic: View from the Top’, in The Ethics of Corporate Conduct, ed. by Clarence C. Walton, Prentice-Hall, Englewood Cliffs, N.J., 1977, pp. 113–124.
Additional information
Samuel M. Natale is Associate Professor Management at the College of Business Administration, University of Bridgeport, Bridgeport, Conn. 06602.
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Natale, S.M. Ethics and enterprise. J Bus Ethics 2, 43–49 (1983). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00382712
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00382712