Virtue in Business
Conversations with Aristotle

An introduction to the role of virtue ethics in business, written by one of the foremost Aristotelian scholars.

Edwin M. Hartman (Author)

9781107030756, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 4 July 2013

285 pages
23.7 x 15.7 x 1.9 cm, 0.55 kg

'Hartman has provided us with a very accessible primer to Aristotelian virtue ethics. The application to business, both at the individual and organizational levels, offers a critical but productive approach to business and business ethics. This is a book that will repay careful study for student and practitioner alike.' Geoff Moore, University of Durham

The virtue approach to business ethics is a topic of increasing importance within the business world. Focusing on Aristotle's theory that the virtues of character, rather than actions, are central to ethics, Edwin M. Hartman introduces readers of this book to the value of applying Aristotle's virtue approach to business. Using numerous real-world examples, he argues that business leaders have good reason to take character seriously when explaining and evaluating individuals in organisations. He demonstrates how the virtue approach can deepen our understanding of business ethics, and how it can contribute to contemporary discussions of character, rationality, corporate culture, ethics education and global ethics. Written by one of the foremost Aristotelian scholars working in the field today, this authoritative introduction to the role of virtue ethics in business is a valuable primer for graduate students and academic researchers in business ethics, applied ethics and philosophy.

Foreword R. Edward Freeman
Introduction to Aristotle, virtue ethics, and this essay
1. Virtues and principles
2. Virtues and decisions
3. Virtues, good reasons, and the good life
4. Developing character
5. Virtues in and among organisations
6. Teaching virtue in business school
7. Ethical conflict and the global future
Bibliography
Index.

Subject Areas: Business ethics & social responsibility [KJG], Business & management [KJ], Ethics & moral philosophy [HPQ]