Discussion Thread 4
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Date
Jan 9, 2024
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Uploaded by AdmiralCrown11695
1
Discussion Thread: The People Side of Business
“Ethics is a conception of right and wrong conduct” (Lawrence, Weber, Hill, & Wasieleski,
2023, p. 97). Ethical perspectives can vary among individuals, religions, and societies, leading to
differences in what is deemed moral or acceptable.
A Christian CEO leading a secular
corporation faces the challenge of establishing an ethical tone while respecting diverse religious
beliefs among employees. To achieve this, the CEO can focus on universal ethical principles that
align with many religious and moral frameworks without imposing specific religious doctrines.
The Bible provides guidance that transcends religious boundaries, and one relevant principle is
the Golden Rule. In Matthew 7:12, Jesus states, "So in everything, do to others what you would
have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets" (New International Version,
2023).
Setting an ethical tone based on the Golden Rule involves promoting fairness, honesty,
and respect in all aspects of the business. The CEO can emphasize these values in the company's
mission and policies. In an interview with best-selling author Fred Reichheld, the author of
Winning on Purpose: The Unbeatable Strategy of Loving Customers
, Reichheld reinforces this strategy.
“I think the most vital element of the manifesto is for leaders to commit to spreading Golden
Rule standards of
behavior throughout their company—and behaving as a personal exemplar.
Decisions and priorities must be explained in terms of values, principles, and purpose, not
simply profits. Great leaders help employees lead great lives of meaning and purpose by
inspiring them to embrace a mission to enrich the lives of customers and colleagues” (Leavy,
2022, p. 8). Additionally, incorporating biblical principles such as integrity, compassion, and
stewardship into business practices can resonate with a broad range of religious perspectives.
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To avoid offending diverse religious beliefs, the CEO should ensure that ethical guidelines
are framed in inclusive language that focuses on shared values. “Research indicates that
inclusive teams and gender-diverse companies are more productive and more likely to
outperform their peers” (Mulki & Stone-Sabali, 2020, p. 64). The emphasis should be on
creating a positive and respectful work environment that values diversity. The Bible encourages
believers to live peaceably with others, as mentioned in Romans 12:18: "If it is possible, as far as
it depends on you, live at peace with everyone" (New International Version, 2023). Moreover,
the CEO can promote an inclusive workplace by acknowledging and accommodating religious
diversity through flexible scheduling for religious observances, creating prayer or meditation
spaces, and fostering open communication channels to address concerns.
While the CEO can draw inspiration from biblical principles, it is essential to respect the
legal and cultural context of a secular corporation. Implementing ethical practices based on
universal values ensures that employees from various religious backgrounds can find common
ground in the pursuit of a just and compassionate workplace. In conclusion, a Christian CEO of a
secular corporation can set an ethical tone by focusing on universal principles, such as the
Golden Rule, while respecting the diverse religious beliefs of employees. By promoting
inclusivity, fairness, and respect, the CEO can create a positive work environment that aligns
with biblical teachings without imposing specific religious doctrines.
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References
Lawrence, A., Weber, J., Hill, V. D., & Wasieleski, D. M. (2023).
Business and Society: Stakeholders, Ethics,
Public Policy
(Seventeenth ed.). New York, NY: McGraw Hill Education.
Leavy, B. (2022). Fred Reichheld: Customer centricity and the strategic power of embracing the “Golden
Rule” in business.
Strategy and Leadership, 50
(2), 3-8. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/SL-12-
2021-0131
Matthew 7:12. (2023).
New International Version
. Retrieved from New International Version Bible
Online: https://www.biblehub.com/matthew/7-126.htm
Mulki, S., & Stone-Sabali, S. (2020). Using Inclusive Language in the Workplace.
Journal AWWA, 112
(11),
64-70. doi:https://doi.org/10.1002/awwa.1615
Romans 12:18. (2023).
New International Version
. Retrieved from New International Version Bible
Online: https://biblehub.com/romans/12-18.htm
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