Applied ethics is the most relevant to business because it involves analyzing specific moral issues in real-world scenarios, including ethical decision-making in corporate governance, workplace behavior, and compliance with laws and standards. Applied ethics bridges theoretical moral principles and practical application, focusing on ethical dilemmas faced in business contexts such as conflicts of interest, resource allocation, and social responsibility.
Applied ethics addresses specific business areas like:
Corporate social responsibility (CSR)
Regulatory compliance (e.g., Sarbanes-Oxley Act)
Stakeholder relations and sustainability
Workplace ethics including harassment, discrimination, and diversity
These considerations are pivotal for organizations to maintain integrity, manage risks, and enhance their reputation. Applied ethics directly influences strategic decisions, aligning business practices with moral obligations and societal expectations.
ASIS Certified Protection Professional (CPP®) References:
Domain 1: Security Principles and Practices: Applied ethics aligns with the ethical standards set for organizational behavior.
Domain 6: Legal Aspects: Regulatory compliance falls within applied ethics, ensuring adherence to legal frameworks.
Domain 7: Investigations: Ethical considerations in investigative processes reflect applied ethics principles.
Sources such as ASIS Standards and Guidelines and the ASIS International Code of Ethics emphasize the role of applied ethics in fostering a culture of accountability and trust in organizations.