Foundations of Economic Ethics (WiSe 2026/27)

Hinweis

This course introduces the philosophical foundations of normative analyses of economic relations and institutions and the main schools and concepts of business ethics. Broadly speaking, we will analyze the morals of markets, competition, growth, innovation, responsibility, and different concepts of justice, as well as some of the specific moral requirements faced by entrepreneurs, employees, corporate executives, consumers, and lawmakers. The first part covers basic ethical terminology as well as the most important accounts of moral and political philosophy, and the special characteristics of 'economic' ethics and the ethics of governance. The second part presents major positions in contemporary political philosophy that address justifications for different modes of economic organization and principles of justice. The third part turns to specific fields of the application of ethical concepts, such as the prevention of white-collar crime (especially corruption), the protection of whistleblowers, or ethical challenges of the supply chain due diligence and ESG.

The main topics of the course are introduced in lectures and interactive learning modules. There will be discussion sessions that cover some of the topics in more depth, and that offer opportunities to discuss case studies and current events. The background readings and course materials will be provided through a learn web platform at the beginning of the term. All students interested in this course are strongly encouraged to attend the in-person sessions, especially the first lecture on 17 October 2025.

Beschreibung

Literatur

An exemplary broad overview of the field of business ethics can be found in the entry in the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy.

Dozenten

• Prof. Dr. Christoph Schneider (verantwortlich)