The practical reality theory and bu

The practical reality theory and business ethics in non-Western context:
evidence from Jordan

In both the Islamic and the Arab World, teachings of Islam influence all
aspects of life. In fact the Moslem life is formed by Islamic values and norms of
moral conduct. Almost every Moslem can recite verses from the Holy Koran
(Moslem bible) or from the sayings of Prophet Mohammed (Hadeeth) that urge
people to be honest and practice ethics in all aspects of life including business.
Rice (1999) identifies the main ethical principles in Islam. These are unity,
trusteeship and justice, and balance.

Unity is related to the emphasis made by the Holy Koran and Hadeeth that
people are brothers and sisters. No difference between Arabs or non-Arabs or
white person or black person. The criterion of honor on the sight of God is
righteousness and honest living (Hanafy and Sallam, 1988).
The second principle is trusteeship and justice. People are viewed as trustees
of the earth on behalf of God. Conspicuous consumption is not tolerated. The
rich therefore, are trustees (Chapra, 1992). However, this does not mean that
private property is not allowed. The rich can enjoy their wealth but this can
only be done after fulfilling the needs of the poor. Zakah, which is somewhat
similar to tax, a compulsory charitable giving paid by the rich to the needy
people

To what extent do Jordanian business managers adhere to business
ethics?
JMD
22,8
682
Journal of Mgmt Development 2003.22:679-693.
. Are the ethical orientations of Jordanian business managers similar to, or
different from, the ethical orientations of business managers in other
countries in the region?
. Is there any association between company features and ethical
orientations of the respondents?
. Is there any relationship between personal/demographic characteristics
and ethical orientations of the respondents?
. What views do Jordanian business managers hold regarding the link
between business ethics and capability of their firms to do business?

To ensure that the instrument was valid for the Jordanian environment it
was piloted on ten managers who came from different sectors. The researcher
interviewed those managers and, based on their responses, modified the
vignettes.