Professor’s Summary
Jeffrey’s exploration of ethics in business demonstrates a commendable depth of understanding and personal insight. His unique perspective, drawing from his agricultural background and academic pursuits, provides a fresh take on the integration of ethical practices in various business contexts. The paper effectively bridges the gap between rural and urban business perspectives, showcasing a mature grasp of the subject matter. While the content is strong, there’s room for improvement in the structure and flow of arguments. Additionally, incorporating more specific examples or case studies would further strengthen his points. The use of academic sources is minimal, and expanding on this would lend more credibility to his assertions. Overall, Jeffrey’s work reflects a promising grasp of both ethical principles and business realities, though it could benefit from more rigorous academic substantiation.
Grade: B+
The Intersection of Ethics and Business: A Farm Boy’s Perspective
by
Jeffrey Wright
UCSF
As a third-year student double majoring in Ethics and Business Administration at UCSF, I’ve found myself uniquely positioned to explore the crucial interplay between moral principles and commercial practices. My background as the son of an Iowa hog farmer has given me a grassroots understanding of both the ethical challenges and economic realities faced by small business owners.
Ethics in Business: More Than Just Compliance
When we talk about ethics in business, it’s easy to focus solely on legal compliance or avoiding scandals. However, my experiences have taught me that true ethical business practices go far beyond these baseline expectations. They involve a deep commitment to fairness, transparency, and social responsibility.
Growing up on a farm, I witnessed firsthand how ethical decisions impact not just the bottom line, but entire communities. Whether it was my father’s choice to invest in more humane animal housing or his commitment to fair labor practices for seasonal workers, each decision rippled through our small town’s economy and social fabric.
Bridging Rural and Urban Perspectives
One of the most valuable insights I’ve gained at UCSF is the importance of bridging the gap between rural and urban business perspectives. Many of my classmates come from big cities and have limited exposure to agricultural enterprises. By sharing my background, I’ve been able to illustrate how ethical business practices are just as crucial in farming communities as they are in Silicon Valley startups.
The Role of Leadership in Ethical Business Practices
As a former high school football player and student council member, I’ve always been drawn to leadership roles. Now, as I study business administration, I’m learning how vital strong, ethical leadership is in shaping company culture and decision-making processes.
Ethics in Business: A Competitive Advantage
Contrary to the notion that ethical practices might hinder profitability, I’ve come to understand that they can actually provide a significant competitive advantage. Consumers are increasingly concerned with the ethical stance of the companies they support. Businesses that prioritize ethics often enjoy stronger customer loyalty, enhanced reputation, and long-term sustainability.
Practical Applications for Ethics in Business
In my studies and internships, I’ve explored various ways companies can integrate ethical practices into their operations:
- Transparent supply chains
- Fair labor practices
- Environmental sustainability initiatives
- Community engagement programs
- Ethical marketing and advertising
- The Future of Ethical Business
As I look towards my future career, whether it’s in agribusiness, rural development, or another sector entirely, I’m committed to championing ethical business practices. I believe that by combining strong moral principles with sound business acumen, we can create enterprises that not only thrive financially but also contribute positively to society.
Conclusion: Ethics as a Guiding Force
My journey from an Iowa farm to a San Francisco university has reinforced my belief in the power of ethics in business. As future business leaders, we have the responsibility and the opportunity to shape a more ethical, sustainable, and prosperous business landscape. By staying true to our values while pursuing innovation and growth, we can build businesses that stand the test of time and make a real difference in the world.
References
- Fehrenbacher, D. D., & Secchi, D. (2021). Ethical decision-making in business: A literature review and integrative model. Journal of Business Ethics, 180(4), 1131-1152.