Business Ethical Decisions In Kazakhstan

Abstract

This paper is part of a larger study designed to explore the effects of ethnicity, nationality, and gender on responses to a variety of business ethical dilemmas in Central Asia.  The data were collected in spring 2010 from MBA students at an American-style business school located in Kazakhstan.  The findings are discussed in terms of their relevance to the conceptual categories of western philosophies of ethics (utilitarianism, deontology, individual rights, justice, etc.).  Possible implications for managers of international and local firms operating in Central Asia are indicated.  Suggestions for the next phase of this line of research are included.  The study is ongoing and is presented as a work-in-progress, thus the findings are considered preliminary.