Dynamic Tensions

Details

INSTRUCTOR: Michelle Romero

SECTION: U41

SCHEDULE: Thursday 5:00PM – 7:00PM, Yearlong

Course Description

This is a two-semester course.

This class focuses on the dynamic tensions between business, law and ethics. Often, our personal values are at odds with (1) what is asked of us or (2) what we are presented with, in the workplace. Lawful, profitable actions may lead to unethical results. The law does not address every situation, and neither do company policies. Can someone “cross the line” without actually “crossing the line?” Professionals (of any industry) cannot make sound business decisions without considering legal or ethical implications because unethical behavior may create legal risks. Hence, we will attempt to reconcile these issues by discussing and analyzing current events, cases, corporate governance policies, compliance programs and the overall social responsibility of organizations and individuals. You will be encouraged to think about the effects of your decisions and the decisions of others on business and society. Simultaneously, you will be learning relevant business and legal concepts, honing your critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving skills—all helping you develop as a leader.

Students will learn to:

  • Develop ethical management and leadership skills by understanding how to make principled and effective decisions in the workplace
  • Communicate effectively and persuasively in oral presentations and written documents
  • Demonstrate analytical problem-solving skills, critical thinking and ethical reasoning
  • Read legal/regulatory documents and analyze case studies from leading business schools
  • Understand that ethical decision-making is not that commonsensical!