Business Ethics

Introduction

Business ethics is defined as what constitutes good and bad business conduct (Kubasek, 2012). For one who claims to be a follower of Jesus Christ, the life which he is called to lead should conform to the two greatest commandments – “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself” (Luke 10:27, English Standard Version). The Christian faith, when translated to a lifestyle, should direct our thoughts and actions to challenge others to also be more like Him. This love can be exemplified through one’s business practices. History is filled with examples of businesses, both Christian and secure, forsaking biblically based ethical behavior for personal and professional financial gain, as in the case study of New Gen.

Corporate Culture

Corporate culture is defined by the ethical values of individuals that make up a company that influence corporate conduct (Kubasek, 2012). Over time, these values begin to direct the method and the means for doing business (Kubasek, 2012). Satisfying investors, stockholders, and customers by increasing quarterly profit margins, while reducing inefficiency and saving money, are not bad in and of themselves. Yet, the pressure within corporations for financial success is greater today than ever before. In some cases, individuals sacrifice personal conviction to conform to corporate culture, also known as ‘groupthink’ (Kubasek, 2012). Many companies wink at fudging numbers, information, and other activities that, while they may not constitute fraud, are not honest (Peterson, 2007). The ethical corporate culture, which includes integrity and honesty, must be exemplified from the top down; in other words, leaders must lead by example. An organizations’ code of ethics will only have substantial influence on others when leadership behavior matches the corporate message. People in organizations are keen...