Business Ethics and Human Values — DU B.Com. (Hons.) Previous Year Question Papers

1. Read the case study and answer the questions that follow: Bright Future Ltd., a leading FMCG company, launched a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative aimed at improving access to education in rural areas where infrastructure and resources were limited. As part of the program, the company constructed classrooms, distributed free textbooks and leaming materials, and organized teacher training workshops to enhance the quality of education. It also collaborated with local communities and authorities to identify areas of need. The initiative was widely appreciated and received positive media coverage, strengthening the company's reputation as a socially responsible organization. However, during an economic slowdown, Bright Future Ltd. faced declining profits and rising operational costs. To maintain financial stability, the company decided to significantly reduce funding fo-r its CSR programs. As a result, several schools that depended on continuous financial and logistical support struggled to operate effectively. Teacher training programs were discontinued, maintenance of school infrastructure was neglected, and the supply of educational materials was interrupted. This led to dissatisfaction among local communities, educators, and partner organizations. The sudden withdrawal of support attracted criticism from NGO§ and community leaders, who argued that the company's CSR efforts lacked long-term commitment and appeared to be driven more by short-term publicity than genuine social responsibility. The situation raised important concerns about the sust,ainability and consistency of CSR initiatives, and how companies balahce social commitments with financial pressures. (i) What are the key CSR issues highlighted in this case? (iii.) Do you think CSR activities should continue even during financial downtuns? Justify your answer. (iii.) How does inconsistency in CSR efforts affect corporate reputation? (a) Define ethics in a business context. What are the major causes of ethical dilemmas in business? (b)"Anethicaldecisionthatbenefitsthemajoritymaystillbec'onsideredwrong under deontological principles". Analyze this statement by comparing utilitarianism and deontology with suitable examples. (9 x2= 18) (a) Discuss the role of various agencies in ensuring ethical practices in corporations. (b) What is meant by the ethos of Vedanta in management? Explain how cultural ethos. and values like hierarchism influence ethical behaviour in organizations. 4. (a) What is ISO 26000? Explain its principles and benefits for organizations. (b) What do you understand by ethical standards? How can organizations set standards for ethical behaviour? (9x2=18) What is whistle blowing? Discuss its types, importance, and the ethical issues involved. How can organizations create a supportive environment for whistle blowers? (18)