Key Trends in U.S. Business Ethics

This analysis of the survey results highlights the current state of business ethics education in the U.S., offering valuable insights for financial services professionals.

The authors identified several key topics that are critical to business ethics education in the U.S., including leadership, ethics management, and corporate governance. For financial professionals, these areas are essential, as they emphasize common trends that highlight the need for ethics training that goes beyond compliance. Survey respondents stressed the importance of ethical leadership in setting the "tone at the top," ensuring that ethical behavior is embedded across all organizational levels.

Emerging Ethical Issues: ESG, AI, and DEI

Emerging ethical issues that are addressed in contemporary ethics education include topics that address the role of business in society, including systems-level implications of business activities. These include environmental, social, and governance (ESG) concerns, artificial intelligence (AI) ethics, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). As the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has considered how to address investor demands for more climate-related disclosures, ESG considerations are becoming a crucial factor in how companies manage risk. Similarly, the increasing use of AI in the financial services industry raises ethical concerns around privacy, fairness, and preventing bias in automated systems. Addressing these issues is vital for businesses committed to long-term sustainability and trust.

Conclusion: Implications for Financial Services Professionals

The evolving landscape of business ethics in the U.S., as outlined by Filabi, Gustafson, and Warren, reflects both regulatory requirements and broader societal expectations. Financial services professionals and organizational leaders need to stay informed about key ethical issues, particularly leadership, AI, ESG, and DEI, as they are becoming integral to navigating the complexities of the modern business environment. Ethics is no longer a mere compliance issue; it is a strategic priority essential for long-term success and trust-building efforts across the financial sector.

More from The College

• Access the full report for an in-depth look at the research findings, including key insights discussed in Chapter 13 (p. 365).
• Learn more about AI ethics in financial services with research from the Center for Ethics in Financial Services.
• Access information on the Center’s research on trust's role in financial services.