Seven Principles of Admirable Business Ethics

We often ask ourselves, "Why is the world in such a state?"

One simple word explains it all: ethics. From Websters - ethics: a set of moral principles : a theory or system of moral values.

It's not that we don't know what ethical behavior is, we just don't pursue it. Especially in business, where today pretty much anything goes as long as you can get away with it.

Here is a little article from About.com that offers seven guidelines for engaging in good business. The article offers more fleshed out descriptions of each point for clarity, but I think just listing them makes it clear enough. Here they are:

1. Be Trustful
2. Keep An Open Mind
3. Meet Obligations
4. Have Clear Documents
5. Become Community Involved
6. Maintain Accounting Control
7. Be Respectful

Wouldn't things be different if we all followed these simple ideas? And for those that think these are too personally restrictive of their liberties and freedoms, well those are just the kind of folks and businesses you want to avoid.