International Business Ethics at Work

							International Business Ethics at Work


       Codes of ethics are the guidelines used by organizations to enable all those that are part

of them to make informed decisions. These codes help those in an organization to understand

what is right and what is wrong. They can use this understanding of right and wrong in their

decision making. Codes of ethics normally concentrate on social issues. They clearly outline the

general principles and values of an organization. They outline its beliefs on issues such as

quality, service delivery, the environment, privacy or the organization’s mission. They give the

required procedures so as to know when there is a violation of the codes and what measures

should be taken if so. They are generally adopted by management with the aim of promoting

moral theories. They are also meant to aid in running organizations in this complicated society

where moral principles and concepts play a crucial role.


       Ethical imperialism refers to a situation whereby the attitudes and codes of ethical

behavior of one society are imposed on another society or community. It directs people, that

wherever they are, they should do thing exactly as they would have done them at home. Cultural

relativism implies the ethics of one culture are not better than any other culture. Cultural

imperialism/ethical relativism both promotes the notion of going to Rome and doing as the

Romans do. After a thorough review, I realize that my organizations codes of conduct fall in the

middle of the cultural imperialism spectrum. They respect the international standards and codes

of ethics of the hairdressing profession. It does not discriminate against employees and

customers on whatever ground including race, ethnicity, sex color, religion, political affiliations,

nationality, sexual orientation or nationality. It respects the international child rights and

principles that are against child labor. It provides very good working conditions of international

standards. It also guarantees customer satisfaction.
       The organization respects Nussbaum’s human capabilities theoretical approach. It

accords equal opportunities to any qualified human being regardless of their sex, race or color. It

is against ancient utilitarian views which denote development only in terms of economic growth

and poverty as a deprivation of income. The organization is Universalist and therefore disagrees

with relativism.


       The organization also complies with the international safety standards of the ISTC. It has

taken accident prevention measures and ensured employee and customer safety at the premises.

It has an excellent record of safety operations.


       One issue that arises in the organization which raises ethical concern is the issue of cost

versus service. I think that the prices for having your hair done are too high. It is against the

codes of ethic of the hairdressing industry to unduly overcharge clients. This is not to say that the

hair salon does not offer good services. The services are great and the customers are always

satisfied. However, I believe that they can come at a cheaper cost. Overcharging does not always

mean great service. The same services are provided by other salons at a much cheaper cost. This

hair salon ought to subsidize its costs. It may be a name to reckon with in the industry, but it is

surely locking out potential customers who are discouraged by the high costs.


       In conclusion, the organization ensures that day to day hairdressing activities take place

according to the ethical practices and legal obligations of the industry. Daily issues that may

raise concern are keenly monitored by the management. It receives high ethical ratings and

ensures that it services are of international standards. Customer satisfaction is key to this

organization and employees ensure a high level of discipline and professionalism. They adhere to

international codes of practice and conduct.