Business Ethics Research Centers

Business ethics research centers are organizations dedicated to the study of what is good or right for individuals and groups of individuals engaged in business activity. Since business ethics is a form of applied ethics (a branch of philosophy), the work of these centers is concerned with taking theoretical ethical concepts and principles and applying them in the real world. More particularly, business ethics research centers investigate and analyze the application of such concepts and principles to business decision making and action and consider the ramifications across the entire range of business functions, including the management of legal compliance, risk, stakeholder relationships, and business reputation, to name just a few. This investigation and analysis usually has the aim of developing greater awareness and understanding of ethical issues in the business environment and promoting best practices to address them. Accordingly, business ethics centers are most effective when they bridge theoretical inquiry and practical application and guide organizations in the development of ethical business cultures.

Business ethics centers are generally not-for-profit organizations, and although most have been established within business schools and universities, some exist independently. Funding and support for institution-based centers are usually provided by the host institution or by corporate and individual donors, government grants, revenue-generating activities (such as executive education programs, conferences, and publishing), and sometimes by all these sources in combination. There are some institution-based centers that derive funding from consulting activities. Independent centers may generate funding from similar sources, with consulting revenues likely to contribute a proportionately greater share in many cases. Typically, centers are small with a full-time director, one or more research and consulting staff members or associates, and several full- and part-time support staff. In the university setting, it is common for faculty members to be affiliated with such centers. They are often charged with teaching business ethics within a broader discipline-based curriculum and, especially now in business schools, integrating the subject into students' general education.