some thots on ethics and islamic values...

During the days of the British empire, British society were displaying its strict Victorian moral code, although some may argue it was restricted purely to the upper strata of society. The early days of the Islamic civilisation was perhaps a fundamental example of how the success of a society or ummah was parallel with a glorious proliferation of a strong moral conduct uphelp by very strong beliefs. Many social commentators argue of an impending demise of American economic and political power due to lack of an existience of a strong ethical basis which binds the society together, and society that is built on respect for the rights of the individual and excessive materialism.       

 

The importance of ethical considerations is not purely due to the fact that it has brought harmony and prosperity to the two society’s quoted above, but also due to the benefits accruing to the individual in terms of honour, prestige, reputation and long-lasting goodwill. Good ethical behaviour, displayed as considerations for others, is always a value held in high esteem universally, and while there are always exceptions to the rule, humankind will always continue to strive for the betterment of the individual and society. While we appreciate the importance of ethical considerations - due thought has to be given on how best to ensure an ethical business environment can be brought about. This personal reflection will attempt to look at a possible practical framework within which a strong ethical consideration is given primary though in the decision making process.

 

One aspect of ethics that would be given emphasis here is that of business ethics. This is attributed to the fact of the growing influence wielded by major multinational corporations, which already have bigger revenues than some country’s GDP. Within the context of a business, government and society (BGS) model, the interrelationships and interplay of the three dimensions would influence the way the framework would be deployed. It is worth noting that if we see business ethics as an extension of Society’s morality then it becomes incumbent that Society's ethics be part of the framework for reform. 

  

SOCIETAL MORAL VALUES  is derived from the strength of the society's commitment to upholding what is perceived as right and preventing the wrong. Here a distinction has to be made between the perspectives of eastern society with its emphasis on community and the good of the many, with western society more predominant on the upholding of individual rights

Moral reform with general society would require a great deal of commitment & effort. However, it is a necessity, .....

 

BUSINESS ETHICS - Companies now wield great influence, with some company's revenues more than some country's GDP. The ability of business leaders to influence decisions at State level is a frightening development. An example can be quoted on how Malaysia is forced to show greater effort to stamp out software piracy due to Microsoft’s pressure.

 

Hence, it is now imperative that business leaders display the same set of commitment towards fulfilling its obligations and responsibility to the society within which it derives its benefits, and not merely oblige purely its shareholders wealth maximisation aspirations only.