Third Conference on International Corporate Responsibility

Conference Theme

The conference is based on the theme that responsible business decisions today must take a global view that is sensitive to political, economic and cultural differences.  The number of participants is kept small, to encourage lively discussion.  Accepted papers are published in a proceedings volume and presented (in summary form) by the authors in plenary sessions.  A diversity of views and countries of origin is sought in the selection process.

            Possible topics include, but are not limited to,

  • international codes of business conduct
  • respecting cultural assumptions and practices
  • defining and coping with corruption
  • reconciling relationship-based practices with Western-style transparency
  • marketing of harmful products
  • substandard labor practices
  • arms manufacture
  • intellectual property
  • gene prospecting
  • environmental issues
  • gender issues
  • human rights issues
  • the meaning and consequences of “economic development”
  • the global AIDS epidemic and other health issues
  • the role of the World Trade Organization and similar bodies
  • impact of international business on local cultures
  • instability of the global financial system
  • Western domination of media and popular culture.

Other topics within the general theme of the conference are welcome.

Selection Criteria

Papers should address ethical issues related to how corporations should operate in a global environment.  The papers may take the form of theoretical analyses, empirical investigations, or case studies. To encourage lively discussion, a diversity of views and countries of origin will be sought in the selection process.  Approximately 25 papers will be accepted.