A macro (Bayesian network) analysis of ethical behavior

Abstract

Macromarketing scholars have long voiced the need for (particularly mezzo and macro-level) empirical investigation of ethical behavior. One of the earlier calls on this issue is made by Murphy and Laczniak (1981). More than ten years later, Laczniak (1993), once again, points out the need for "developing empirical traditions" in business/marketing ethics (p.93). The comprehensive review by Nill and Schibrowsky (2007) also suggests "more research to shed further light" on the ethical frameworks and theories developed over the decades (p. 271). In addition, the authors point out that the existing research has particularly taken a "micro/positive" perspective and macro and normative perspectives of ethics have received little attention. Finally, the authors made a special call for the need for macro level ethics studies by stating "we believe that macro articles provide an integral part in the development of marketing ethics field." [...]