Business Ethics

Self-Reflection Paper

I signed up for BMGT 496 - Business Ethics as it was a degree requirement. I wasn't sure what I was really going to learn from the class as I have been in the business world for many years and have seen what is "right" and what is "wrong", along with what is considered "grey". However, I found that there was a good learning environment provided by an informative and capturing text, the great interaction between the students in the class, and assignments that made you think and apply what you learned.

The text started off slow for me with the theory behind how we determine what is ethical or not and what theory supports our reasoning. These theories spanned different levels appealing to one's culture and how they were "brought up" in the world. I have never been a theoretical person but I have found that theory and philosophy work when trying to come to a resolution. Theory and Philosophy sets the foundation behind a conversation and help build on the process towards a solution.

I have always found interest in real life examples and the text offered plenty of examples that both helped identify an issue along with providing insight behind the reasoning or issue. This was one of the biggest aids in helping to supplement the theory and philosophy behind an issue. It was also helpful to see how the development of ethical guidelines came about because of issues in the environment.

A good part of learning comes from the interaction with the class. Our class provided a good diversification as there were students there who had been all over the world. This helped provide a greater understanding of how ethics comes into play as businesses increase their globalization. There are many different cultures out there that look at issues in a different manner and what one culture may find ethical, another may find it completely unethical.

The other part of the interaction that helped facilitate learning and a better understanding of ethics at a holistic view were the backgrounds and cultures of the classmates. Participating in an on-line class provides a greater depth of classmates. Now, classmates come from various areas and upbringings and this brings numerous inputs and thoughts on issues that others wouldn't have thought about. Diversity is always better as ideas are formed in many different ways.

The assignments given provided both an insight into real problems faced today along with an