The History Behind Business Ethics in Italy

This chapter aims to revisit some milestones in the emergence of business ethics in Italy. It is not intended to be a meticulous and exhaustive historical reconstruction, but rather a narrative of some particularly significant moments and thoughts. The history of business ethics in Italy is a story of people seeking a deeper meaning to their actions. For this reason, the chapter is based on the narrative provided by prominent scholars who have dedicated almost all their academic lives to this research. The study highlights several fundamental elements that characterize, among other aspects, the concept of business and business ethics in Italy: (1) the anthropological perspective of business, emphasizing the central role of humankind within business; (2) the idea that through business activity, individuals must grow in virtue, achieve personal goals, and contribute to the common good; (3) the influence of the cultural and social context on human behavior, particularly in its tension between individualism and socialization; and (4) the view that, due to the social and person-centered nature of business, every business decision is deeply rooted in moral values, leaving no room for a separation between business and ethics. Building on these premises, this chapter offers some insights to address the challenges facing contemporary businesses.