ETHICS AND CSR

Assignment

Submitted to
Dr. Farah Samreen

Submitted By
M.Waqar
2022-EMBA-505

Institute of Business & Management

Select a current incident that would be deemed appropriate and relevant within the specific context
of Pakistan that addresses an issue related to integrity and / or ethics. Examples any topic relevant
to sports, politics, media industry, public offices etc. Describe the issue in your own words and
clearly demonstrate what the relevant integrity / ethical issues are. Select an ethical theory (e.g.,
utilitarianism or deontology) and apply this theory to the issue in order to identify a preferred way
to guide decision-making. Maximum length: 1000 words
The political landscape in Pakistan has been marred by ethical challenges, and maintaining
integrity in the political realm has become a pressing concern. This essay explores a hypothetical
political incident and analyses it from the perspective of deontology, an ethical theory that
emphasizes adherence to principles and duties, regardless of the consequences.
Description of the Issue: In the midst of a political campaign, a prominent politician is accused of
involvement in corrupt practices, including embezzlement of public funds and accepting bribes.
These allegations have sparked public outrage and put the integrity of the entire political system
into question. The incident raises concerns about accountability, transparency, and the moral
conduct of politicians, which are crucial elements in upholding integrity in the political sphere.
Ethical Issues: The political incident brings to light several ethical issues that demand attention:
Corruption and Misuse of Power: Corruption within the political system erodes public trust and
diverts resources meant for public welfare towards personal gain.
Violation of Public Trust: Political leaders are entrusted with power to serve the interests of the
citizens. Any breach of this trust undermines the democratic principles of accountability and
representation.
Ethical Conduct of Politicians: The behaviour of politicians significantly influences the country's
moral fabric. Unethical actions by political figures set negative precedents and impact the overall
ethical climate.
Moral Duty towards Constituents: Politicians have a moral duty to prioritize the needs and well-
being of their constituents over personal interests. Failure to fulfill this duty undermines the
democratic ideals of public service.
Application of Deontology: Deontology, as an ethical theory, urges individuals to act in
accordance with their moral duties and principles, irrespective of the potential outcomes. Applying
deontological principles to the political incident, we can consider the following courses of action:
Upholding Rule of Law: Deontology emphasizes the importance of adhering to legal and moral
principles. In this context, the investigation and prosecution of the accused politician should be
carried out diligently, allowing for a fair trial and due process. Upholding the rule of law
demonstrates a commitment to justice and ethical conduct in the face of corruption allegations.
Transparency and Accountability: Deontology emphasizes the duty to be transparent and
accountable to the public. Implementing measures to increase transparency in political activities
and finances can help rebuild public trust and uphold ethical standards. Politicians should disclose
their financial interests, funding sources, and decision-making processes to ensure transparency in
their actions.
Setting a Moral Example: Deontological ethics demand that politicians act as moral exemplars.
Leaders should lead by example and demonstrate integrity in their actions, inspiring citizens to
follow ethical paths. Political figures should prioritize public interest over personal gain and
demonstrate a genuine commitment to the welfare of their constituents.
Ethical Decision-Making: Deontological ethics require politicians to carefully consider the moral
implications of their decisions. Before making policy, choices or engaging in political activities,
leaders should assess whether their actions align with ethical principles and duties. This approach
encourages thoughtful and responsible decision-making that serves the greater good.
Civic Education and Ethical Training: Deontology emphasizes the importance of moral education
and ethical training. Implementing civic education programs can help instil ethical values in future
leaders and promote a culture of integrity in politics. By fostering a sense of moral duty towards
the nation and its citizens, these programs can contribute to the long-term improvement of the
political landscape.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the hypothetical political incident underscores the significance of integrity in
Pakistani politics. Deontology provides valuable insights into ethical decision-making, focusing
on adherence to principles and moral duties. Resolving the ethical challenges in the political sphere
requires a collective commitment to upholding the rule of law, promoting transparency, and
holding politicians accountable for their actions.
By embracing deontological principles, political leaders can work towards rebuilding public trust,
strengthening democracy, and fostering a more ethically sound political environment in Pakistan.
Upholding integrity in politics not only restores faith in the system but also empowers citizens to
actively participate in the democratic process, confident that their elected representatives prioritize
their interests and welfare.
To achieve lasting change, political parties, civil society organizations, and the media must
collaborate to create an ethical political culture. Through regular public engagement and
constructive dialogue, citizens can hold politicians accountable for their actions and demand
transparency and ethical conduct.
Furthermore, policymakers should prioritize reforms aimed at strengthening institutions that
oversee political conduct and promote ethical practices. By investing in anti-corruption measures,
whistle-blower protection, and ethics commissions, the government can signal its commitment to
fighting corruption and upholding integrity.
Ultimately, the journey towards a more ethical political landscape is a collective effort that
involves politicians, citizens, and stakeholders working in tandem. By prioritizing integrity,
Pakistan can pave the way for a more just, transparent, and accountable political system that serves
the best interests
of the nation and its citizens. Only by upholding ethical principles can Pakistani politics rise to its
full potential, ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future for generations to come.
 Module 2: Ethical Leadership
Stay Neural or Not

You are the CEO of a large online platform that allows C2C business transactions (transactions
directly between customers). At a leadership summit, the CEO of a video game company
approaches you to express his concern over discovering a bootlegged version of a video game his
company had began to produce on your platform. The CEO goes on to say that his company
stopped the production of the game after receiving too much criticism over how violent the game
is. He asks if you would consider taking down the game, not only because it is a bootlegged
version, but also because it is violent. Previously, you have never evaluated the products sold on
your platform since your company is protected under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act
(DMCA). The DMCA states that an online platform like yours cannot be held liable for selling
any particular product so long as the company does not selectively police its site. If your company
were to remove this product from the platform then, under the DMCA, you should review all
products being sold. This would require the hiring of a new team, along with the added risk of
significantly reduced transactions on your platform. If you stay neutral and let the product stay,
you could risk criticism from the public for allowing the sale of such a violent game.
Discuss the decision you would have made if you were in this leader’s position, and the reasons
for that decision.
Title: Ethical Leadership in the Face of Moral Dilemmas: The Case of an Online
Platform CEO
Introduction
Ethical leadership is a critical aspect of a leader's responsibility, especially when they have the
power to influence others and shape outcomes significantly. This essay discusses a hypothetical
moral dilemma faced by the CEO of a large online platform that allows C2C business transactions.
The CEO is approached by another company's CEO, who requests the removal of a bootlegged
and violent video game from the platform. The decision poses complex ethical challenges, and this
essay explores the factors that would influence the CEO's choice and the ethical considerations at
play.
The Ethical Dilemma: As the CEO of the online platform, the decision to remove or retain the
bootlegged and violent video game presents a moral dilemma. On one hand, the CEO could comply
with the request and remove the game, reflecting ethical concerns about promoting violence and
respecting copyright laws. On the other hand, adhering to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act
(DMCA) and maintaining a neutral stance on content regulation raises questions about consistency
and the potential consequences for the platform's operations and reputation.
Ethical Leadership and Responsibilities: Ethical leadership requires the CEO to consider various
ethical responsibilities in this situation. The first responsibility is to be a role model, setting an
example of ethical conduct for the organization and its stakeholders. The CEO's decision will be
closely observed by employees, customers, and the public, influencing their perception of the
platform's ethical values.
The second responsibility involves fostering an ethical culture within the organization. This
includes promoting ethical standards, open communication, and transparency. The decision
regarding the video game can impact the platform's culture and the perception of ethical values
within the organization.
The third responsibility is to consider the common good and societal impact of the platform's
actions. The decision regarding the video game affects not only the involved companies but also
the customers and the broader public. Considering the ethical implications on society is crucial in
making an informed choice.
The Decision-Making Process: In this scenario, the CEO faces two major options: comply with
the request to remove the violent video game or maintain a neutral stance and continue to adhere
to the DMCA. Both choices have ethical implications, and the CEO must carefully evaluate the
consequences of each decision.
If the CEO chooses to remove the game, it reflects ethical concerns about promoting violence and
respecting intellectual property rights. This decision aligns with principles of justice and fairness,
as bootlegged content violates copyright laws and negatively impacts the original content creators.
Removing the game may also protect the platform's reputation and demonstrate a commitment to
ethical conduct.
However, taking down the game would require the platform to review all products, which is a
significant undertaking. This decision could lead to reduced transactions and potential criticism
from customers and sellers who value the platform's neutrality. Additionally, selective content
regulation may open the door to future demands for further product removals, creating potential
inconsistency in ethical practices.
If the CEO decides to remain neutral and not remove the game, the platform avoids the challenges
associated with content regulation. It upholds the principles of freedom of expression and the
DMCA's protective measures for online platforms. This decision may also prevent a decrease in
transactions and maintain a more positive public image.
However, staying neutral may be perceived as tolerating violent content and disregarding
intellectual property rights. The platform could face criticism from the public and stakeholders
who believe it has a moral obligation to address the promotion of violence and piracy.
Conclusion
The ethical dilemma faced by the CEO of the online platform highlights the complexities of ethical
leadership. The decision regarding the bootlegged and violent video game requires a thoughtful
evaluation of various ethical responsibilities and considerations. Ultimately, the CEO must strive
to balance the principles of justice, fairness, respect for intellectual property rights, and the
common good.
In such situations, ethical leaders can rely on ethical decision-making models and principles to
guide their choices. A comprehensive approach involves considering the consequences of actions,
assessing the impact on stakeholders, and reflecting on the alignment with core ethical values and
principles.
Regardless of the decision made, ethical leadership demands transparency and open
communication with stakeholders about the reasoning behind the choice. Engaging in open
dialogue can foster trust and understanding, even when facing difficult moral dilemmas.
In conclusion, ethical leadership requires leaders to navigate challenging situations and make
decisions that align with moral principles while considering the broader impact on stakeholders
and society. The hypothetical scenario of the online platform CEO's moral dilemma exemplifies
the complexity of ethical decision-making in leadership roles. By upholding ethical values,
promoting transparency, and engaging in thoughtful deliberation, leaders can aspire to be ethical
stewards and positive influencers in their organizations and beyond.
 Module 3: Corporate Social Responsibility

Explain the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and its significance for businesses
and society. Discuss the potential benefits and challenges of implementing CSR initiatives in a
business organization. Provide examples of successful CSR initiatives and their impact on society
and the environment.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a business approach that involves a company's
commitment to act responsibly towards society and the environment beyond legal requirements. It
entails integrating social and environmental concerns into the company's operations and
interactions with stakeholders. CSR is based on the idea that businesses have a responsibility not
only to their shareholders but also to the wider community and the planet. It goes beyond simply
making profits and emphasizes the positive impact a company can have on the world.
Significance of CSR for Businesses and Society:
Enhanced Reputation and Brand Image: Embracing CSR practices can improve a company's
reputation and brand image. Consumers, employees, and stakeholders are more likely to support
and engage with a company that demonstrates its commitment to social and environmental causes.
Attraction and Retention of Talent: In today's competitive job market, top talent seeks to work for
companies that align with their values. CSR initiatives attract and retain employees who are
passionate about making a difference and contributing to social causes.
Increased Customer Loyalty: Consumers are more inclined to support businesses that are socially
responsible. A positive CSR reputation can lead to increased customer loyalty and trust.
Mitigating Risks: By adopting sustainable practices and ethical decision-making, companies can
reduce the risk of negative publicity, legal issues, and potential financial losses due to
controversies.
Positive Impact on Society and the Environment: CSR initiatives address various societal and
environmental issues, such as poverty, climate change, education, and equality, thereby
contributing to positive change.
Potential Benefits of Implementing CSR Initiatives:
Environmental Conservation: Companies can reduce their carbon footprint, promote renewable
energy, and implement eco-friendly practices to contribute to environmental preservation.
Philanthropic Contributions: Donations and partnerships with charitable organizations can support
initiatives that benefit local communities and vulnerable populations.
Ethical Labour Practices: Ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and diverse and inclusive
workplaces are essential aspects of CSR, fostering a positive work environment and employee
satisfaction.
Community Development: Engaging in community development projects, such as building
schools or healthcare facilities, can have a lasting positive impact on local communities.
Challenges of Implementing CSR Initiatives:
Costs and Resources: CSR initiatives may require financial investments and dedicating resources
that some companies may struggle to afford, especially for smaller businesses.
Balancing Stakeholder Interests: Different stakeholders may have varying interests and priorities,
making it challenging to satisfy everyone's expectations.
Measuring Impact: Evaluating the tangible impact of CSR initiatives can be complex, as their
outcomes often involve long-term and indirect effects.
Greenwashing Risks: Some companies may engage in greenwashing – exaggerating or falsely
promoting their CSR efforts for marketing purposes without substantial commitment to sustainable
practices.
Examples of Successful CSR Initiatives:
Patagonia: This outdoor apparel company is known for its strong commitment to environmental
sustainability. It encourages customers to repair and reuse products to reduce waste and supports
environmental campaigns to protect natural spaces.
Microsoft: Microsoft invests in numerous philanthropic initiatives, including providing technology
access to underserved communities and supporting digital skills training programs.
Unilever: Unilever is committed to achieving sustainability goals through its Sustainable Living
Plan. The company aims to reduce its environmental impact, improve health and well-being, and
enhance livelihoods.
Google: Google has made significant investments in renewable energy, aiming to operate its global
operations on 100% clean energy.
In conclusion, Corporate Social Responsibility is not only essential for the well-being of society
and the environment but also beneficial for businesses in terms of reputation, talent attraction,
customer loyalty, and risk mitigation. By adopting CSR initiatives that align with their values and
core business focus, companies can play a significant role in making a positive impact on the world
while strengthening their brand and market position.
 Module 4: Professional Ethics

What would be the best way for you to ensure that you would remain accountable and
responsible year after year within the profession you wish to enter? Imagine yourself working
within the profession of your choosing three years from now. Where will you draw the line
regarding what you will not do to make money or achieve fame? What will you not do no matter
how much profit you could make or how much recognition you could receive? Can you think of
behaviour you would like to exhibit to be a role model for others? Are there shades of grey where
you are not sure how you should act or make decisions? If so, what would be the best way for you
to determine how to be ethical in difficult situations when you must make vexing choices?
Title: Ensuring Accountability and Ethical Conduct in my Chosen Profession
Introduction
As I envision myself working within my chosen profession three years from now, I am keenly
aware of the importance of upholding personal and professional ethics. Maintaining accountability
and responsibility are essential aspects of being a successful and ethical professional. In this essay,
I will outline the steps I plan to take to ensure I remain accountable and responsible throughout
my career, the ethical boundaries I will set to avoid compromising my values, and the role model
behaviour I aim to exhibit to inspire others. I will also discuss the challenges of navigating ethical
dilemmas and the strategies I will employ to make ethical decisions in difficult situations.
Establishing Personal and Professional Ethics
The foundation of being an ethical professional lie in the alignment of personal ethics with the
principles of the chosen profession. To ensure I remain accountable and responsible, I will begin
by critically examining my personal values, upbringing, cultural background, and belief systems.
Understanding these aspects will help me define my core principles, guiding me in making ethical
decisions both in my personal life and within my profession.
Next, I will thoroughly study and internalize the professional code of ethics applicable to my
chosen field. Whether it is a written code or an oath, the code of ethics will serve as a compass to
navigate complex situations. By committing to these ethical standards, I will be better equipped to
stay accountable to my clients, colleagues, and society at large.
Setting Ethical Boundaries
To maintain my integrity and avoid compromising my values, I will set clear ethical boundaries.
These boundaries will act as safeguards against engaging in unethical practices, even if they
promise financial gain or recognition. For example, if I were to work in the field of marketing, I
would establish a policy of not using manipulative tactics or misleading information to promote
products or services.
Drawing the line will also involve careful consideration of situations that may arise in my
profession. I will identify potential ethical dilemmas and create action plans for handling them
responsibly. By
setting these boundaries early on, I will be less likely to face moral conflicts and more likely to
make principled decisions.
Being a Role Model
As a professional, I recognize the influence I can have on others, including colleagues, clients, and
the community. To be a positive role model, I will consistently demonstrate ethical behaviour and
uphold my values even in challenging circumstances. My aim is to inspire those around me to
prioritize integrity and responsibility in their own actions.
Transparency and accountability will be the pillars of my professional conduct. I will actively
engage in open communication, take responsibility for my mistakes, and be receptive to feedback.
By doing so, I hope to encourage a culture of ethical conduct within my workplace and contribute
to building a trustworthy and reputable profession.
Navigating Ethical Dilemmas
Ethical dilemmas are inevitable in any profession. When faced with difficult choices, I will employ
a systematic approach to decision-making. One such approach, as suggested by Luban's four-step
strategy, involves justifying the ethical decision based on the societal good it serves, the role
obligations, and the necessity of the action. This analytical framework will help me evaluate the
consequences and moral implications of my choices.
Additionally, I will seek guidance from mentors, experienced professionals, or ethical committees
within my profession. Engaging in discussions and consulting with others can offer valuable
insights and alternative perspectives, aiding in ethical decision-making.
Conclusion
As I embark on my professional journey, I am committed to upholding the highest standards of
ethics, accountability, and responsibility. By aligning my personal values with the principles of
my chosen profession, setting ethical boundaries, and striving to be a role model for others, I will
ensure that my actions consistently reflect my beliefs. While ethical dilemmas may present
challenges, I will face them with a well-considered approach, seeking guidance when needed. By
doing so, I hope to make a positive impact in my profession and contribute to a more ethical and
principled society.
 Module 5: Behavioral Ethics
Discuss the following questions:
Q. What are some practical ways that university students can cultivate ethical behaviours in their
academic and personal lives, and why is it important to do so?
Q. What are some common ethical dilemmas that university students may face, and what are some
strategies for making ethical decisions in these situations?
Title: Cultivating Ethical Behaviours in University Students
Introduction
Ethics play a crucial role in shaping an individual's character and guiding their behaviour in various
aspects of life. For university students, developing ethical behaviours is essential not only for their
academic success but also for their personal growth and future professional careers. This essay
discusses practical ways that university students can cultivate ethical behaviours in their academic
and personal lives, emphasizing the importance of ethical conduct. Additionally, it explores
common ethical dilemmas students may encounter and provides strategies for making ethical
decisions in these situations.
Cultivating Ethical Behaviours in Academic and Personal Lives
Education and Awareness: a) Academic Curriculum: Universities should integrate ethics courses
and workshops into the academic curriculum. These courses can cover topics such as ethical
decision-making, moral reasoning, and the importance of integrity. b) Guest Lectures: Inviting
ethical professionals and experts to deliver guest lectures can expose students to real-world ethical
challenges and the value of ethical behaviour in their chosen fields. c) Ethical Awareness
Campaigns: Universities can organize campaigns to promote ethical behaviour, highlighting its
impact on personal and societal well-being.
Role Models and Mentorship: a) Faculty and Staff: Encourage faculty and staff to serve as ethical
role models, demonstrating integrity, honesty, and fairness in their interactions with students. b)
Peer Mentorship: Peer mentorship programs can foster ethical behaviour through mutual support,
discussions, and guidance on ethical dilemmas.
Code of Ethics: a) Student Code of Conduct: Universities should establish a clear and
comprehensive code of conduct that outlines expectations for ethical behaviour, academic
integrity, and professional conduct. b) Academic Integrity Programs: Implement programs that
educate students about plagiarism, cheating, and academic misconduct, emphasizing the
importance of honesty and original work.
Ethical Reflection and Critical Thinking: a) Ethical Case Studies: Incorporate case studies into
courses that require students to analyse ethical dilemmas, make moral judgments, and propose
ethical solutions. b) Ethical Discussions: Encourage open discussions on ethical
issues within classrooms, allowing students to exchange perspectives and develop critical thinking
skills.
Community Engagement and Service-Learning: a) Service-Learning Projects: Engage students in
service-learning opportunities that allow them to apply their skills and knowledge to address social
issues, promoting empathy and ethical behaviour. b) Volunteerism: Encourage students to
participate in volunteer activities that contribute positively to society, fostering a sense of social
responsibility and ethical citizenship.
The Importance of Ethical Behaviour for University Students
Personal Development: Ethical behaviour cultivates moral values, integrity, and self-discipline,
leading to personal growth and character development. It helps students become responsible and
accountable individuals, reflecting positively on their relationships and interactions with others.
Academic Success: Academic integrity is essential for learning and knowledge dissemination.
Ethical behaviour in academia ensures fairness, credibility, and respect for intellectual property,
contributing to a robust and honest academic environment.
Professional Preparedness: Employers value ethical conduct in their workforce. Cultivating ethical
behaviours during university years prepares students to uphold professional standards and make
ethically sound decisions in their careers.
Social Impact: Ethical individuals contribute to a just and compassionate society. By embracing
ethical principles, university students can positively influence their communities and foster an
environment of trust and cooperation.
Common Ethical Dilemmas Faced by University Students
Cheating and Academic Misconduct: Students may face pressure to cheat on exams or submit
plagiarized work to achieve better grades. Ethical decision-making involves choosing academic
integrity over shortcuts.
Peer Pressure and Ethical Compromises: University life often involves social activities that may
conflict with ethical standards, such as engaging in substance abuse or participating in dishonest
practices. Students must navigate peer pressure and stay true to their values.
Time Management and Integrity: Balancing academic responsibilities, personal life, and
extracurricular activities can be challenging. Students may be tempted to cut corners or neglect
ethical responsibilities due to time constraints.
Ethical Conduct in Research: Students involved in research projects must adhere to ethical
guidelines, ensuring the rights and privacy of participants and maintaining honesty in reporting
findings.
Strategies for Making Ethical Decisions
Identify Ethical Issues: Recognize the ethical dimension of a situation and consider the
consequences of potential actions on oneself and others.
Gather Information: Collect relevant information and seek multiple perspectives to understand the
complexity of the situation fully.
Reflect on Values: Reflect on personal values, principles, and the potential impact of actions on
one's integrity and reputation.
Seek Guidance: Consult trusted mentors, faculty members, or peers to gain insights and alternative
viewpoints.
Consider Long-Term Consequences: Evaluate the long-term impact of decisions and weigh the
potential benefits against the ethical risks.
Apply Ethical Theories: Utilize ethical theories such as utilitarianism, deontology, or virtue ethics
to analyse the situation and arrive at a principled decision.
Conclusion
Cultivating ethical behaviours in university students is essential for personal development,
academic success, and future professional careers. Universities should employ various strategies
to promote ethical conduct, including education, role modelling, and ethical reflections. By
understanding common ethical dilemmas and using principled decision-making, students can
navigate the complexities of university life while upholding ethical standards. Ethical behaviour
not only benefits individuals but also contributes to a just and compassionate society.