A firm’s code of ethics outlines the kinds of behaviors expected within the organization and serves as a guideline for encouraging ethical behavior in the workplace. It reflects the rights of the firm’s workers, shareholders, and consumers.

Assignment

1. Working in a team of four, find a code of ethics for a business firm. Start the search by asking firms in your community for a copy of their codes, by visiting the library, or by searching and downloading information from the internet.

2. Analyze the code of ethics you have chosen, and answer the following questions:

a. What does the company’s code of ethics say about the rights of its workers, shareholders, consumers, and suppliers? How does the code reflect the company’s attitude toward competitors?

b. How does this code of ethics resemble the information discussed in this chapter? How does it differ?

c. As an employee of this company, how would you personally interpret the code of ethics? How might the code influence your behavior within the workplace?
Give several examples.