In search of pedagogical approaches to teaching business ethics in the era of digital transformation

Abstract

The authors explore the challenges in teaching business ethics in an era of digital transformation, provide an understanding of the limitations of traditional ethics approaches, and explore emerging approaches that may more effectively deal with the ethical complexities of the new digital era. Building on prior research conducted during December 2018 and January 2019 regarding the skills required for jobs in the big data field, the authors argue that business ethics must be an essential skill for those working in this field. Ethical frameworks in big data and information management are explored including Universalist, Integrative Social Contract Theory and Care Theory, as well as agency, disciplinary, contextual and outcomes considerations. The authors posit that traditional ethical frameworks such as Universalist approaches, are no longer sufficient to guide decision making in an era of digital transformation and the “datafication” of society. Therefore, business educators have a duty to cultivate critical thinking mindsets in their students and the adoption of “responsible innovation” principles, similar to those developed in the science and technology innovation literature.