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Daniel Moorer

This course focuses on the theoretical origins of ethics. There are many possible paths, but it seems that ethics found its origins in the early days after the emergence of Homo Sapiens.

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This course focuses on the theoretical origins of ethics. There are many possible paths, but it seems that ethics found its origins in the early days after the emergence of Homo Sapiens.

The discussion here recognizes that many believe in Creation and many believe in Evolution. For the purposes of this study, the evolutionary path is assumed and the course develops from there.

Included in the discussion are summaries from various sources about the time of emergence of Homo Sapiens, the slow development of group dynamics, the establishment of what we now call human nature, and a brief discussion of where we, as a culture, are going – at least from an ethical perspective.

This course can be taken for academic credit as part of CU Boulder’s Master of Engineering in Engineering Management (ME-EM) degree offered on the Coursera platform. The ME-EM is designed to help engineers, scientists, and technical professionals move into leadership and management roles in the engineering and technical sectors. With performance-based admissions and no application process, the ME-EM is ideal for individuals with a broad range of undergraduate education and/or professional experience. Learn more about the ME-EM program at https://www.coursera.org/degrees/me-engineering-management-boulder.

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Syllabus

The Human Condition and Where Do We Come From?
This module addresses the possible origins of ethics. It examines, from an evolutionary standpoint, theories about the emergence of Homo Sapiens and its survival instincts, some of which might be considered, in today’s terms, ethical traits associated with the best interests of the individual. It also considers the emergence of the family group and small tribes where a different set of traits were admired and expected; those that were associated with the interests of the group. Lastly, we consider the emergence of larger groups and small societies where societal norms modified ethics even further.
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Eusociality and Social Evolution
This module goes further than Lesson 1, examining the concept of eusociality that describes traits that define exceptionally successful species. Further, we examine the concept of social evolution. From both of these discussions, one may draw further conclusions about the human ethical makeup and why we operate the way we do.
What Are We and Where Are We Going?
This module builds on the two previous ones, drawing conclusions about human nature. Having a better understanding of how, perhaps, we came to be who we are today may help a leader to better understand the people who work with them and why they operate the way they do. Moreover, the leader may begin to understand that each person has conflicting traits: some concerned with individual survival (selfishness), and some concerned with the well-being of the organization (altruistic).

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Examines the possible origins of ethics with an evolutionary basis, which is useful for understanding human nature and decision-making
Explores the concepts of eusociality and social evolution, providing insights into exceptionally successful species
Taught by instructors with experience in engineering and management, providing practical insights into the ethical challenges faced in these fields
Offered in conjunction with a Master's program at CU Boulder, indicating academic rigor and credibility

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in A Theoretical Origin of Ethics in Business and Tech Industry with these activities:
Review Evolutionary Biology
Understand the evolutionary origins of ethical behavior
View Evolution on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read Chapter 1
  • Take notes on the concepts of natural selection and adaptation
  • Summarize the chapter
Participate in an Ethics Bowl
Engage in lively discussion and argumentation
Browse courses on Ethics
Show steps
  • Find an Ethics Bowl competition
  • Prepare for the competition
  • Participate in the competition
Define Ethical Terms
Reinforce understanding of ethical concepts
Browse courses on Ethics
Show steps
  • List 10 ethical terms
  • Define each term
  • Provide an example of each term
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Attend a Study Group
Collaborate with peers and reinforce understanding
Browse courses on Ethics
Show steps
  • Find a study group
  • Attend the study group
  • Participate in discussions
Explore Case Studies
Apply ethical principles to real-world scenarios
Browse courses on Ethics
Show steps
  • Find a case study that interests you
  • Analyze the case study and identify the ethical issues involved
  • Develop a solution to the ethical issues
Contribute to an Open-Source Ethics Project
Gain practical experience and contribute to the community
Browse courses on Ethics
Show steps
  • Find an open-source ethics project
  • Contribute to the project
Write a Position Paper
Develop critical thinking and communication skills
Browse courses on Ethics
Show steps
  • Choose an ethical issue to write about
  • Research the issue
  • Develop a thesis statement
  • Write the paper
Mentor a Younger Student
Develop leadership and communication skills
Browse courses on Ethics
Show steps
  • Find a younger student who needs help with ethics
  • Meet with the student regularly
  • Provide guidance and support

Career center

Learners who complete A Theoretical Origin of Ethics in Business and Tech Industry will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Business Ethicist
A Business Ethicist develops and implements ethical policies and procedures for companies. A deep knowledge of theoretical ethics is essential for this role. This course provides a solid foundation in the philosophical origins of ethics, which can be directly applied to the development of ethical frameworks for businesses.
Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
Corporate Social Responsibility Managers are responsible for developing and implementing corporate social responsibility initiatives. This course provides a strong foundation in the ethical considerations that underpin corporate social responsibility, which can help CSR Managers make more informed decisions about how to allocate resources and develop effective strategies.
Ethics Officer
Ethics Officers are responsible for overseeing the ethical conduct of a company. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the theoretical foundations of ethics, which can help Ethics Officers make informed decisions about how to address ethical issues and ensure compliance with ethical standards.
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Managers are responsible for managing the human resources of a company, including developing and implementing HR policies and procedures. This course provides a strong foundation in the ethical considerations related to HR management, which can help HR Managers make more informed decisions about how to manage employees and create a positive work environment.
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Managers are responsible for developing and implementing sustainability initiatives for companies. This course provides a solid foundation in the ethical considerations related to sustainability, which can help Sustainability Managers make more informed decisions about how to develop and implement sustainable practices.
Compliance Manager
Compliance Managers are responsible for ensuring that a company complies with all applicable laws and regulations. This course provides a strong foundation in the ethical considerations related to compliance, which can help Compliance Managers make more informed decisions about how to develop and implement compliance programs.
CSR Consultant
CSR Consultants advise companies on how to develop and implement corporate social responsibility initiatives. This course provides a strong foundation in the ethical considerations that underpin corporate social responsibility, which can help CSR Consultants provide more informed advice to their clients.
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultants advise companies on how to develop and implement sustainability initiatives. This course provides a solid foundation in the ethical considerations related to sustainability, which can help Sustainability Consultants provide more informed advice to their clients.
HR Consultant
HR Consultants advise companies on how to manage their human resources. This course provides a strong foundation in the ethical considerations related to HR management, which can help HR Consultants provide more informed advice to their clients.
Compliance Consultant
Compliance Consultants advise companies on how to comply with all applicable laws and regulations. This course provides a strong foundation in the ethical considerations related to compliance, which can help Compliance Consultants provide more informed advice to their clients.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts develop and analyze policies for governments and other organizations. This course provides a strong foundation in the ethical considerations related to policy development, which can help Policy Analysts make more informed decisions about how to develop and analyze policies.
Journalist
Journalists report on news and current events. This course provides a strong foundation in the ethical considerations related to journalism, which can help Journalists make more informed decisions about how to report on the news and current events.
Lawyer
Lawyers advise clients on legal matters and represent them in court. This course provides a strong foundation in the ethical considerations related to law, which can help Lawyers make more informed decisions about how to advise and represent their clients.
Judge
Judges preside over court cases and make decisions based on the law. This course provides a strong foundation in the ethical considerations related to law, which can help Judges make more informed decisions about how to preside over court cases.
Professor
Professors teach and conduct research at universities and colleges. This course provides a strong foundation in the theoretical foundations of ethics, which can help Professors develop and teach courses on ethics and conduct research in the field.

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in A Theoretical Origin of Ethics in Business and Tech Industry.
Frans de Waal's book explores morality from an evolutionary perspective, examining the origins of ethical behavior in primates and humans. It provides a solid foundation for understanding the biological and social underpinnings of ethics.
Yuval Noah Harari's book offers a comprehensive overview of human history from an evolutionary perspective. It provides insights into the development of human societies and the emergence of ethical systems.
Sam Harris' book argues that science can provide a foundation for ethical decision-making. It explores the relationship between science, reason, and morality.
Kevin Simler's book examines the unconscious biases and motivations that shape human behavior. It provides insights into the cognitive and emotional processes that influence our ethical decision-making.
Hans Küng's book proposes a universal ethic based on the common values found in different religious and cultural traditions. It provides a framework for ethical decision-making in a globalized world.
Michael Novak's book argues for the compatibility of capitalism and ethical values. It provides a philosophical framework for understanding the ethical dimensions of business and markets.
Mike W. Martin and Roland Schinzinger's book provides a comprehensive overview of ethical issues in engineering practice. It covers topics such as professional responsibility, sustainability, and the impact of technology on society.

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