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Ethics and Behavioural Theory: How Do Professionals Assess Their Mental Models?

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  • Frank Jan Graaf

    (Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences
    University of Amsterdam Business School)

Abstract

The role and ethics of professionals in business and economics have been questioned, especially after the financial crisis of 2008. Some suggest a reorientation using concepts such as craftsmanship. In this article, I will explore professional practices within the context of behavioural theory and business ethics. I suggest that scholars of behavioural theory need a strategy to deal with normative questions to meet their ambition of practical relevance. Evidence-based management (EBMgt), a recent behavioural approach, may assist business ethics scholars in understanding how professionals infer ‘evidence’ to make decisions. For a professional, ethical issues are an integral part of decision-making at critical moments. As reflective practitioners, they develop insights related to ethical concerns when collecting and assessing evidence within decision-making processes.

Suggested Citation

  • Frank Jan Graaf, 2019. "Ethics and Behavioural Theory: How Do Professionals Assess Their Mental Models?," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 157(4), pages 933-947, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jbuset:v:157:y:2019:i:4:d:10.1007_s10551-018-3955-6
    DOI: 10.1007/s10551-018-3955-6
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    4. Mohammad Hossein Rahmati & Ali Intezari & Bernard McKenna, 2022. "A Shi’a Islam Approach to Wisdom in Management: A Deep Understanding Opening to Dialogue and Dialectic," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 181(4), pages 891-911, December.

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