Course Description:
This course introduces the philosophical foundations of normative analyses of economic relations and institutions and the main schools and concepts of business ethics. Broadly speaking, we will analyze the morals of markets, competition, growth, innovation, responsibility, and different concepts of justice, as well as some of the specific moral requirements faced by entrepreneurs, employees, corporate executives, consumers, and lawmakers. The first part covers basic ethical terminology as well as the most important accounts of moral and political philosophy, and the special characteristics of 'economic' ethics and the ethics of governance. The second part presents major positions in contemporary political philosophy that address justifications for different modes of economic organization and principles of justice. The third part turns to specific fields of the application of ethical concepts, such as the prevention of white-collar crime (especially corruption), the protection of whistleblowers, or ethical challenges of the supply chain due diligence and ESG.
The main topics of the course are introduced in lectures and interactive learning modules. There will be discussion sessions that cover some of the topics in more depth, and that offer opportunities to discuss case studies and current events. The background readings and course materials will be provided through a learn web platform at the beginning of the term.
Please note that this course is primarily intended for students of the MSc in Business Development and the MSc in Economics. To ensure an engaging learning atmosphere, the maximum capacity is 35 students. To register, send an email to maggie.crisp@wiwi.uni-muenster.de by 15 October 2026.
We look forward to seeing you!
Schedule:
04.12.2026, 8:30am-5:30pm, LEO 11.3
07.01.2027, 8:30am-5:30pm, ONLINE
08.01.2027, 8:30am-5:30pm, ES 227 (Johannisstr. 12-20)
09.01.2027, 8:30am-5:30pm, ONLINE
- Lehrende/r: Maggie Crisp
- Lehrende/r: Verena Rauen
- Lehrende/r: Christoph Schneider