Introduction

In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, ethical decision-making affects all levels of managers and nearly every employee. Organizations today are expected to act ethically within their organization and demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility. As managers navigate their day-to-day work, the ability to navigate ethical dilemmas becomes a defining factor for long-term success and positive societal impact for them and their organizations.

This textbook is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of these critical issues and their influence on decision-making within management contexts. Divided into two key parts, it guides readers through foundational concepts while also exploring the multifaceted factors that shape ethical decisions in practice.

Part 1: Introduction to Ethical Decision-Making, Social Responsibility, Sustainability, Inclusivity, and Decolonization in Management

The first part of the book lays the groundwork by introducing the core principles of ethics, social responsibility, and sustainability. Chapter 1 revisits the foundations of ethics, providing readers with a brief review of key theories and ideas. Chapter 2 explores the relationship between social responsibility, sustainability, and ethical decision-making, showing how these elements converge in management. Moving forward, Chapter 3 introduces the concepts of equity, diversity, inclusion, and decolonization—topics that are increasingly crucial in today’s business landscape. Finally, Chapter 4 offers an overview of the key factors that influence ethical decision-making, setting the stage for deeper exploration in the following sections.

Part 2: Influences on Ethical Decision-Making
The second part delves into the specific influences using the PICS framework, which describes influence on individual’s ethical decision-making, considering personal, issue-related, cultural, and structural factors. Chapter 5 examines how individual traits and personal values can shape ethical judgments. In Chapter 6, we explore the role of issue-specific factors, such as the nature of the ethical dilemma, in guiding decisions. Chapter 7 highlights the influence of cultural norms and values, emphasizing the global context in which many organizations operate. Finally, Chapter 8 looks at how organizational structures and systems impact the ethical decision-making process, particularly in the context of corporate governance and leadership.

By the end of this textbook, readers will have developed a more nuanced understanding of how to approach ethical decision-making in management, informed by a range of theoretical frameworks and practical considerations. The hope is that , whether you are a student, a professional, or a leader, this book equips you with the tools to navigate the ethical challenges of today’s business world.