Relationships between moral philosophies and perceptions of the importance of ethics and social responsibility in business

This study integrates perspectives from the literature in social psychology and business ethics to develop and test hypotheses about positive associations between moral philosophies and perceptions of the importance of ethics and social responsibility in business.  There is a large body of research in social psychology that links attitudes and perceptions to intentions and then ultimately to behaviors. Accordingly, if individual employees perceive that socially responsible behavior is important for business success, they will develop intentions and ultimately make decisions that are consistent with these perceptions. This study seeks to improve understanding of the antecedents of perceptions that socially responsible behavior is important for business success. Specifically, this study explores the relationships between deontological versus teleological moral philosophies and perceptions of the importance of ethics and social responsibility in business. Measures of formalist versus utilitarian moral philosophies and perceptions of the importance of ethics and social responsibility in business were collected from a large sample of adults in the USA and analyzed to assess the nature of any relationships. Understanding these relationships could assist with developing training and interventions to adjust philosophical approaches, perceptions, and decision making so they are more consistent with improving future environmental outcomes.

Presentation Preference: Poster

Primary Presenter: Baiyun Gong, Nova Southeastern University (baiyun_gong@yahoo.com)

Authors:

Kurt Wurthmann, Nova Southeastern University  (kurtwurthmann@yahoo.com)

Baiyun Gong, Nova Southeastern University  (baiyun_gong@yahoo.com)