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Journal of Business Ethics

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01-09-2013 | Introduction

Cultural Diversity and Universal Ethics in a Global World

Authors: Domènec Melé, Carlos Sánchez-Runde

Published in: Journal of Business Ethics | Issue 4/2013

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Abstract

Cultural diversity and globalization bring about a tension between universal ethics and local values and norms. Simultaneously, the current globalization and the existence of an increasingly interconnected world seem to require a common ground to promote dialog, peace, and a more humane world. This article is the introduction to a special issue of the Journal of Business Ethics regarding these problems. We highlight five topics, which intertwine the eight papers of this issue. The first is whether moral diversity in different cultures is a plausible argument for moral relativism. The second focuses on the possibility of finding shared values and virtues worldwide. The third topic deals with convectional universalistic ethical theories in a global world and the problems they present. Fourth, we consider the traditional natural moral law approach in the context of a global world. The last topic is about human rights, as a practical proposal for introducing universal standards in business.

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Title: Cultural Diversity and Universal Ethics in a Global World
Authors: Domènec Melé
Carlos Sánchez-Runde
Publication date: 01-09-2013
Publisher: Springer Netherlands
Published in: Journal of Business Ethics / Issue 4/2013
Print ISSN: 0167-4544
Electronic ISSN: 1573-0697
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10551-013-1814-z

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Other articles of this Issue 4/2013

The Cultural Roots of Ethical Conflicts in Global Business

Weaning Business Ethics from Strategic Economism: The Development Ethics Perspective

The Role of Four Universal Moral Competencies in Ethical Decision-Making

East Meets West: Toward a Universal Ethic of Virtue for Global Business

Honorableness or Beneficialness? Cicero on Natural Law, Virtues, Glory, and (Corporate) Reputation

Human Rights in the Void? Due Diligence in the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights