CHAPTER 2: Reflection

The study of mataethics and normative ethics are both significant in the subject learning
of business ethics. In mataethics, we have realized that our persona can either be ascribed to God
or to man. Though in both, we have to make a firm commitment. Here, we focus ourselves to the
discovery of reasons and explanations of the two prominent issues: metaphysics and psychology.
Metaphysics refers to the question of objectivism – belief that precepts are given by God, and
subjectivism – belief that precepts are agreed by humanity. Questions on psychology are: egoism
and altruism, emotion and reason, male and female morality, moral development theory, and the
theory of aftercare.

In normative ethics’ sense, we realized that there are many other principles to pattern
ourselves to. But still, it is dependent on the study of these principles, whether we should commit
to them as a whole, or by piece. The discussions centered on virtue ethics, duty theories,
consequential theories and the social contract theory. Good habit may lead to the acquisition of
virtues, and bad deeds to vices. Duties are also considered non-consequentialist theories because
they have to be performed despite the consequences. Basically, consequentialist theories are
those that focus on the rightness or wrongness of the act based on the rightness or wrongness of
their consequences. Finally, the social contract theory states that man, by nature, is selfish. In a
society, there is the natural inclination of man to make rules in order to protect the individual
interests of its members.

Business ethics is applied ethics, as stated in the book. Moral reasoning is crucial to
business ethics because this is a process of reasoning that leads to the proper treatment of issues.
The analysis of ethical business issues needs the identification of what moral standards should be
used as benchmark to solving issues. It should be thoroughly understood in terms of what they
require, prohibit, value, and condemn. Only then can we subject the policies of individuals and
organizations to ethics.

In chapter 2: Sources of Moral Standard and Criteria of Moral Conduct, we also learned
the value of judging and analysing issues we have at hand. We also now understand and
recognize the need for professional scepticism, and thorough the analysis and understanding of
such issues. With all the assumptions, evidences have to be gathered to prove adherence or
violations to moral standards. We cannot judge based on hearsays or the like. There has to be
proof and further validation. We don’t take fallacies as facts.

Moreover, as the book says “We must be consistent in our judgement.” And we can only
make this true, if we also are consistent in applying the same moral standars in our lives.