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Dilemmas and Debates in Entrepreneurship

Abstract:: This is a course about dilemmas and debates. A dilemma is "an argument presenting two or more equally conclusive alternatives; a choice or a situation involving choice between equally unsatisfactory alternatives; a problem seemingly incapable of a satisfactory solution". The process of entrepreneurship involves the recognition of challenges and dilemmas, vigorous debate, and ultimately, solutions. No solution lasts long in an entrepreneurial milieu whose underpinning is "creative destruction". Yet, we will attempt to discuss a variety of contemporary dilemmas in entrepreneurship by interacting with prominent entrepreneurs and also through your own research and out of class activities. We believe that entrepreneurship is more than something one does at a point in time. It is a philosophy of life. The challenge to each student is to discover their own entrepreneurial potential and find ways to capitalize on that potential. The challenge is to build an entrepreneurial career that might include starting ventures, working for high growth ventures, taking over a family business, entrepreneuring in a large company, and/or pursuing social and non-profit entrepreneurship. The entrepreneurs you will meet in the coming weeks can help you in defining your path.

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Ethics and Public Policy

Abstract:: This course will provide the student with an overview of the role that ethical, cultural, religious, and moral principles play in public policy. The course will introduce the student to common themes found in the foundational theories of ethics and morality in politics such as justice, equality, fairness, individual liberty, free enterprise, charity, fundamental human rights, and minimizing harm to others. These themes are integrated into various decision-making models that you will learn about. Students will examine five types of decision frameworks used to make and implement public policy, as well as rationales used to justify inequitable impact and outcomes of policies. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: explain how personal morality and ethics impact the policymaking process; discuss various ethical frameworks used to resolve policy dilemmas; identify statutes, ethical codes, and legal opinions that define the normative parameters of key domestic and international policy issues; assess the impact that public interest groups have on policymaking and execution of policies. (Political Science 401)