SESSION 6

[Marvellous]

1. Explain and distinguish between the ethical theories of relativism and absolutism

2. Describe and evaluate Gray, Owen and Adams seven positions on social responsibility
:cute:

[Marvellous]

1. Explain and distinguish between the ethical theories of relativism and absolutism

Relativism/Non - cognitivism
Ethical codes change over time
Arise from the culture and belief of the speaker. Meaning that right or wrong is culturally determined.
There are many sets of moral truths
It depends on the situations
Each group has its own code of ethics. Different strokes for different people
A normal activity in one country may be normal in another.Eg Abortion may be accepted in one country and not the other

Strengths
It brings out the differences in culture
Conflicts arising from different situation can be resolved

Weaknesses
It leads to anything being permissible

Absolutism/Cognitivism

Built on natural laws,law,universally applicable moral truths
One set of moral truth regardless of the outcome
Accepted without discussion

Strengths
Truths are international

Weaknesses
Does not consider the changing rules



2. Describe and evaluate Gray, Owen and Adams seven positions on social responsibility

Pristine Capitalists
Believe that a company exists to maximise profit. Agents can reduce the value of the investment by their actions and that is theft and they will be held accountable. The shareholders are the legal owners of the company and they have risked their money so they are more interested in profit maximisation. Therefore, they have a right to determine objectives and strategies
Have little or no concept for CSR

Expedients/Opportunists

They also believe in shareholder wealth maximisation but realise that social expenditure is necessary to achieve that goal. For example, the mobile industry MTN,ZAIN are involved in social responsibility. The two donate to charity to create a favourable image

Social Contract
The society grants a business the licence to operate and it can be revoked if the business does not act appropriately. Therefore, the business must continually adapt to the norms of society. It should serve the public interest

Social Ecologist
Businesses are responsible for minimising the social and environmental footprint regardless of views of the society.Organisations should be aware of the pollution, waste disposal and incorporate in the operating and production practices.

Socialists
Manipulation and oppression of other classes of people.The production of goods should be secondary and social responsibility primary

Radical feminists
Believe that businesses are run using male traits such as aggression,power,assertiveness,domination,competit iveness (this is what has got society in a mess) when it should operate based on female values such connectdness,equality,dialogue,compassion,fairness ,mercy.

Deep Ecologists
Believe that humans have no intrinsic rights to exist over other species plants and animals. Organisations should destroy natural habitats to build more warehouses. The present should leave more for future generations than what we inherited.