ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on business ethics and ethics in the creative industries workplace. Companies and their employees should treat all workers in the supply chain ethically, and in conformance with law, international convention and best practice. The chapter explores some ethical concepts: utilitarianism, Machiavellianism, deontological theories, Aristotle's virtue ethics, the 'Universalizability Principle' of Immanuel Kant, rights and ethical relativism. Utilitarian arguments focus on negative outcomes such as not optimally matching the best people for the best opportunities, and damage to society by the effects of racism and sexism. Kantian ethics argue individuals are deprived of the right to be treated with dignity and respect. Irrespective of the social outcomes, stereotyping is morally repugnant because it strips people of their individuality. In the US, the 1964 Civil Rights Act prohibits employers from using race, colour, religion, sex or national origin as a basis for discrimination in employment related matters.
