Homework Assignment 1

Introduction to Ethics: Gods of Business

 

Part 1.

After reading Quinn, Chapter 2, Sections 2.1 - 2.4, answer the following questions:
1. What is the difference between morality and ethics?
2. What is the difference between relativism and objectivism

Part 2.

Go to the Website for the radio program, "Speaking of Faith", for the episode entitled "The Gods of Business", as follows:

1. Read the journal entry of the program host, Krista Tippett, regarding this episode, entitled "On the Role of Ethics in the Marketplace" at: http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/programs/godsofbusiness/kristasjournal.shtml.

2. Then listen (or read the transcript) of the interview by Ms. Tippett of Prabhu Guptara. You can download the audio file at http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/programs/godsofbusiness/index.shtml (under the heading "SOF On Demand") or you can read the transcript at http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/programs/godsofbusiness/transcript.shtml.

3. Then answer the following questions:

a. What examples does Guptara discuss about how religion affects business practices?

b. How does Guptara appear to define the descriptor "religious"? How do you define it? Do you consider yourself a religious person and on what basis? If so, how does your religion provide you guidance as to your ethical decision-making?

c. Is there an inherent and insurmountable conflict to being a successful business person and leading an ethical or religious life?

s. In the global economy, can respect for religious and cultural diversity be reconciled with the weaknesses of cultural and religious relativism?