阅读教程 基础篇2 第四版 教参Unit10 T Business Responsibility and Ethics.docVIP

PAGE 7 Unit 10 商业责任与商业道德 I. Related Background Information 1. The Role of Business The Commission on Business in Society defines the role of business in the context of globalization and changing societal expectations and articulates messages on issues relating to business in society. Business makes a huge contribution to economic and social development. Companies are eager to encourage environmental and social progress by remaining true to their own business principles. Whether these are formal or informal, they play an important role in bridging cultural diversity within companies and in enhancing awareness of societal values and concerns. 2. Social Responsibility Principle that businesses should actively contribute to the welfare of society not only maximize profits. Most corporate annual reports will highlight what the company has done to further education, help minorities, give to the arts and social welfare agencies, and in general, improve social conditions. The concept is also used by investors in picking companies that are fair to their employees, do not pollute or build weapons, and make beneficial products. 3. Business Ethics Most people involved in business—whether functioning as a small business owner, employee, or chief executive officer of a multinational company—eventually face ethical or moral dilemmas in the workplace. Such dilemmas are usually complex, for they force the person making the decision to weigh the benefits that various business decisions impart on individuals (including himself or herself) and groups with the negative repercussions that those same decisions usually have on other individuals or groups. In recent years, the issue of business ethics has garnered increased attention. Corporate research and watchdog groups such as the Ethics Resource Center and the Council on Economic Priorities point out that the number of corporations that engage in ethics training and initiate socially responsive programs has increase