“What is responsible enterprise?”.
“What is responsible enterprise?” The purpose of this structured essay is to critique the role of business in society. In doing so, students should:
–
Discuss key global challenges, with reference to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
–
Highlight the impact of private enterprise in society on those challenges
–
Define responsible enterprise
–
Explore the role of government in facilitating &/or inhibiting responsible enterprise
All relevant topics are covered in Term 1. In addition, skills-based tasks will be included throughout the unit to support students in developing their academic reading, writing & referencing skills.
1 Introduction & background (700 words – 25%)
Write a maximum of three sentences that outline the purpose & structure of the essay. Then identify ONE of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Drawing on the “3 pillars of sustainable development (social, economic & environmental) set out the challenges that underlie this goal.
Relevant lectures: Introduction to the unit & the UN SDGs; Private enterprise & social/ethical challenges; Private enterprise & economic challenges; Private enterprise & environmental challenges;
2. Discuss the impact of MNCs in society, with regard to your chosen goal (450 words- 20%)
Using appropriate theory &/or expert sources, consider the role of traditional, for-profit business but you might also want to explore the impact of socially responsible businesses, social enterprise & non-profit organisations.
Relevant lectures: Understanding the role of business in society 1; Understanding the role of business in society 2
3. Define responsible enterprise (350 words – 15%)
There are diverse interpretations of what “responsible enterprise” means. Using appropriate academic theory, compare & contrast TWO of the following concepts; corporate social responsibility (CSR), corporate citizenship, business ethics.
Relevant lectures: Defining Responsible Enterprise 1; Defining Responsible Enterprise 2
4. Discuss the spectrum of responsible enterprise (350 words – 15%)
Utilising Alter’s (2007) sustainability spectrum, discuss the ethics of private business and, responsible enterprise.
Relevant lectures: Defining Responsible Enterprise 1; Defining Responsible Enterprise 2
5. Highlight the role of government in society. (300 words – 15%)
Using appropriate theory &/or expert sources, explain how government facilitates (or inhibits) responsible enterprise.
In your discussion, you should draw on examples relating to your chosen challenge. You need to consider the role/purpose of government, as well as the tools it has at its disposal. You might find it easier to focus on ONE level of activity (i.e. global, regional, national or local).
Relevant lectures: The role of government