Hi!
Although business ethics is now a universal subject, I would like to believe that its actual application and implementation in corporate premises is still largely cultural in trait and dimension, if not vague and "metaphysical".
I have seen companies with specially formulated Code of Business Ethics, aside from their handbook's Code of Discipline. Although both are similar in intent, the target client seems to be different in some organizations. The Code of Business Ethics tend to apply more for managerial and executive employees while the Code of Discipline applies to supervisory and rank and file employees.
However, I am not sure whether these materials apply to the owners and shareholders of the company. To me, this is where the ethical dilemma comes in. Maybe, in publicly listed companies, where shares are controlled by many stockholders, the level of professionalization and ethical practices can be increased.
In family and closed corporation, the owners normally play the role of gods and goddesses.
Ethical practices would sway with the level of morality and professionalism they would want seen in their companies. Small fries must dance and sway with them. Anyway, they are the ones accountable to regulating bodies in their respective places of business operation.
Crusaders in family and closed companies may not find themselves in good work environment if they campaign against the wishes of their corporate gods and goddesses.
Best wishes.
Ed Llarena, Jr.
Managing Partner
Emilla Consulting