1. Professional Business Ethics © 2000 South-Western Educational Publishing Introduction to Business Ethics Ethics The principles of right and wrong that guide an individual in making decisions Business Ethics The use of personal ethics in making business decisions Chapter 1

2. Professional Business Ethics © 2000 South-Western Educational Publishing Introduction to Business Ethics Three-step checklist Is the action illegal? Does the action violate company or professional standards? Who is affected, and how, by the action? Chapter 1

3. Professional Business Ethics © 2000 South-Western Educational Publishing Introduction to Business Ethics Is the action illegal? Obeying the law is in your best interest and the best interest of your business. Chapter 1

4. Professional Business Ethics © 2000 South-Western Educational Publishing Introduction to Business Ethics Does the action violate company or professional standards? Public laws often set only minimum standards of behavior. Many businesses and professions set even higher standards. An action may be legal, yet violate standards of the business or profession. Violating these standards may affect job security and professional certification. Chapter 1

5. Professional Business Ethics © 2000 South-Western Educational Publishing Introduction to Business Ethics Those affected can include employees business owners customers the local community society Who is affected by the action and how are they affected? Chapter 1

6. Professional Business Ethics © 2000 South-Western Educational Publishing Introduction to Business Ethics Determining how the action affects individuals and groups will help you decide if an action is ethical. Who is affected by the action and how are they affected? Chapter 1