Business failures in the global financial sector, and the subsequent repercussions for a range of different groups, not just shareholders, have put the spotlight on the role of business and the behaviour of managers. Is business just responsible for maximising profit for its owners, or does it have responsibilities to other groups? This raises a number of difficult questions; which groups? responsible for what? And if so, how to discharge these responsibilities?
This module has three main aims:
• To develop critical thought, insight and debate regarding the changing role of business in today's society.
• To broaden your views on the role of business in society.
• To provide you with the tools, skills and knowledge to manage responsibly.
The nature of the topic is constantly changing and evolving; therefore the module will be subject to continual refinement according to developments in industry, government and academia.
Indicative topics are:
• Definitions of Corporate Responsibility
• The Role of Business and Society
• Theories of Corporate Responsibility
• Ethics Theory
• Business Ethics and Corporate Governance
• Areas of Corporate Responsibility
• Firm Level Responses
• Social Accounting
• Criticisms of Corporate Responsibility
• Social Entrepreneurship
• Sustainability
Private Study: 128
Contact Hours: 22
Total: 150
Main assessment methods:
Group presentation (20%)
Individual Essay (4000 words) (80%).
Reassessment method:
100% Coursework
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
- Critically analyse the role of business in society.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the main ethical, economic, social and environmental challenges faced by contemporary organisations.
- Compare and contrast different theoretical perspectives behind the motivations for engaging, or not engaging, in responsible behaviour and sustainability.
- Show an comprehensive understanding of ethical theory, and be able to apply theory to a range of contemporary ethical and sustainable issues associated with managing an international business.
- Display in-depth knowledge of the relationship between sustainability, corporate responsibility and firm performance, behaviour, reporting and governance.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
- Negotiate and work with peers.
- Work under own initiative.
- Work with others.
- Take a synoptic view of business.
- Address complex problems.
- Present a logical case/argument.
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
