Ethical Decision-Making, Social Responsibility, and AI in Business Strategy

Course Logistics & Upcoming Activities

  • AI Strategy Discussion: Focus on appropriate decision-making when AI is incorporated into business operations.

  • Case Study One Introduction: First case analysis will be introduced.

    • Students will be provided with an outline and rubric for the analysis.

    • The due date is approximately 3 weeks away, but an introduction is being given early to set expectations.

    • Teams will choose from a list of companies for the case study. The preference is for no more than two teams to use the same company.

  • Wednesday: Competition Round One (CapSim Simulation):

    • Teams should begin forming their Mission Statement as the guiding force for their company, outlining their expectations.

    • Specific Objectives must be set, which are measurable and have a timeline (M with a T).

    • Strategies are the most difficult part, detailing how the company plans to accomplish its objectives.

    • A draft of the company's mission statement, objectives, and strategies is due by Wednesday.

Two Parallel Tracks

  • CapSim Company (Andrews, Baldwin, Chester, Digby, Erie, or Ferris): This track involves developing the team's own company within the simulation.

  • Case Study Analysis: This track involves analyzing existing companies and their encountered objectives and strategies.

  • It is crucial not to confuse these two distinct activities.

Chapter 3: Ethical Decision Making & Social Responsibility

  • Core Concept: A private company or corporation has responsibilities to society that extend beyond merely making a profit.

Milton Friedman's View on Corporate Social Responsibility
  • Argument: Friedman, an economist from the late 1980s and 1990s, argued against the concept of corporate social responsibility.

  • Primary Goal: The primary goal of a business is profit maximization.

  • Shareholder Focus: Shareholders invest in companies expecting a return (ROI) on their investment.

  • Critique of CSR: Engaging in philanthropic or environmental approaches beyond legal requirements is seen as taking away from shareholders.

  • Example: Starbucks'