Blackwell Reference Online

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are dedicated to the study of what is good or right for individuals and groups of individuals engaged in business activity. More particularly, these organizations investigate and analyze the application of moral concepts and principles to business decision‐making and action, usually with the aims of developing greater awareness and understanding of ethical issues in the business environment, and promoting best practices to address them. Business ethics centers are most effective when they bridge theoretical inquiry and practical application, and guide organizations in the development of ethical business cultures. Business ethics centers are generally not‐for‐profit organizations, and although most have been established within business schools and universities, some exist independently. Funding and support for institution‐based centers are usually provided by the host institution or by corporate and individual donors, government grants, revenue‐generating activities (such as executive education programs, conferences, and publishing), and sometimes by all of these sources in combination. Independent centers may derive funding from donors, grants, and programs and also from consulting revenues. Significant active research in business ethics began in the mid‐1970s, as the field became more widely recognized as a legitimate subject for study and teaching. Demand for such research was ... log in or subscribe to read full text