Business as Ethical and Business as Usual: Text, Readings, and Cases : Book Review

"Business as Ethical and Business as Usual" by Sterling Harwood delves into the ethical aspects of business operations, questioning the conventional separation of business ethics from personal ethics. Harwood emphasizes the significance of moral principles in the realm of commerce and argues that ethical conduct should be an integral part of everyday business practices. Through the analysis of various ethical dilemmas faced by businesses, this book offers practical guidance on navigating these challenges successfully.

Harwood challenges the prevalent belief that morality has no place in the business arena, presenting compelling arguments and real-life examples to demonstrate how ethical behavior not only enhances a company's reputation but also leads to long-term success. By highlighting the interconnectedness between ethics and business, Harwood encourages readers to critically evaluate their own moral compass and its relevance to their professional conduct.

One of the book's strengths lies in Harwood's ability to communicate complex ethical concepts in a clear and accessible manner. The content strikes a balance between theoretical analysis and real-world application, making it engaging and relatable to readers from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, the author provides practical frameworks and strategies that individuals at all levels of an organization can implement, enabling them to integrate ethical decision-making into their daily business practices.

Moreover, "Business as Ethical and Business as Usual" challenges the prevailing norms of business practices and questions assumptions that prioritize profit above all else. Harwood argues that embracing an ethical approach to business is not only morally right but also in the best interest of companies and their stakeholders. This book serves as a wake-up call to those who believe that ethics and business are incompatible, urging readers to reconsider their perspective and adopt a more comprehensive view of ethical decision-making.

Overall, Sterling Harwood's "Business as Ethical and Business as Usual" provides a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between ethics and business. It challenges traditional notions and offers a compelling argument for integrating ethical principles into everyday business practices. With its accessible writing style and practical guidance, this book is a valuable resource for individuals and organizations seeking to navigate the complex ethical landscape of the business world.

What are readers saying?

The book "Business as Ethical and Business as Usual" by Sterling Harwood has received a range of reviews. Some readers have praised the author for his thought-provoking ideas and thorough analysis of ethical issues in business. These readers find Harwood's arguments well-reasoned and appreciate his ability to challenge conventional thinking. They believe that the book raises important questions about the role of businesses in society and find it enlightening for any business professional interested in ethical considerations.

However, some reviewers have expressed frustration with the book's heavy emphasis on theoretical concepts. They feel that the author could have provided more practical examples and case studies to illustrate his points. These readers argue that the book lacks real-world applicability and may not be suitable for those seeking actionable advice on ethical decision-making in business.

Critics have also commented on the book's writing style, describing it as dense and academic. They suggest that it may be difficult to understand for readers without a background in philosophy or ethics. Some find the arguments repetitive, making the book a tedious read at times. However, others commend the author for his scholarly approach and praise the depth and rigor of his analysis.

In summary, "Business as Ethical and Business as Usual" has divided readers' opinions. While some appreciate the book's thought-provoking ideas and intellectual rigor, others find it overly theoretical and lacking practical relevance. The book has been praised for its exploration of moral dilemmas in the business world, but criticized for its lack of real-world examples and challenging writing style.