Credits: 3
Schedule: 13.05.2019 - 17.05.2019
Learning Outcomes (valid 01.08.2018-31.07.2020):
Learning outcomes for this course, upon successful completion, include the ability to:
1) critically evaluate both agency theory and the use of stakeholder analysis, 2) analyze and apply prevailing business ethical models to decision-making (scenarios), 3) identify ethical dilemmas in business and evaluate trade-offs between different stakeholder groups, 4) engage in debate on current ethics and responsibility problems in international business and 5) understand the role of external and industry standards in promoting CSR.
Content (valid 01.08.2018-31.07.2020):
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the main theories, models and history of corporate responsibility and business ethics and engage them in critical thinking on contemporary debates on the role of business in society. The course themes include ethics and the market, the role of agency theory in refining the purpose of the business and stakeholder theory. Ethical models and frameworks for decision-making are also addressed and the generally accepted international standards for corporate social responsibility are introduced and evaluated. Students will become familiar with accepted/adopted CSR standards, such as the UN Global Compact and ISO 26000, as well as the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Cases will be discussed that highlight the consequences of a lack of ethics and responsibility, as well as the impact of best practice on society and the firm.