Books and Websites on Jewish Business Ethics

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Doing the Right Things Right as a Habit of Conduct

A Review of How: Why HOW We Do Anything Means Everything

(New York: John Wiley, 2007. $27.95)

Reviewed by Larry Greenberg

In his book, Dov Seidman distinguishes the “whats” from the “hows” of doing business. Since organizations have mastered competing on the basis of efficiency, the hows elevate a company from its peers. Seidman advises us to internalize good conduct, to create the bonds of mutuality and trust among people and organizations. He describes the attributes of a culture that instill acting truthfully, transparently, collaboratively, respectfully and humbly throughout a company. Organizations that internalize these principles exceed

the expectations of their customers and assure sustainable profits, while providing a satisfying environment for its employees. Seidman contends that inspirational leadership is necessary at all levels to transform culture so that it becomes contagious and self-regulating.

Business Ethics in Jewish Law

By Edward Zipperstein

Throughout the centuries, Jewish law has changed and expanded with the times. Demonstrating his extensive knowledge of the Talmud, history and economics, Zipperstein presents a fascinating look at the relationship between Judaism and ethics in the business world. Although this book was published in 1983, it remains just as relevant in commerce laws today.

This book features a series of essays about core ethics valued by managers, employees and stockholders who believe that traditional Jewish sources provide solutions to many contemporary business issues.

My Jewish Learning.com

This website deals with a variety of ethical issues such as “Advertising and the 10th Commandment,” which discusses the limitations of Jewish law to acceptable means of advertising one’s wares. Other ethical issues debated include: Internet Privacy in Judaism, Theft in Business, Taxes & Judaism.

Judaism in the Workplace: Professional Ethics and Halakha

This site offers a wealth of books and articles about the Jewish response to bankruptcy, fraud, debt and other issues. www.darchenoam.org/ethics/business/bus_home.htm

The Business Ethics Center in Jerusalem

Every week, the Center promotes Jewish business ethics in its syndicated Jewish Ethicist Internet column. As a resource, the Center provides books, articles and AV presentations. to businesses as well as implements educational programs for teachers. Jewish Business News reprints one of the columns in each issue. http://besr.org/