MBA 570 - Ethical Issues in Sports

(3 credits)

Students will examine the conceptual framework for ethical decision-making using sports as a prism to examine normative perspectives. Varied ethical perspectives are analyzed through the conflicts presented in critical sports-related questions. Course readings and lectures examine the theoretical constructs of ethical decision-making from Christian and non-Christian positions, giving specific attention to Franciscan values and the Franciscan Goals of Higher Education.

Athletes, coaches, physical therapists, trainers, and sport managers in sport frequently face difficult decisions and dilemmas, often with ethical and moral implications. It is therefore critical for current and future participants and leaders in sport to explore their understandings of moral and ethical concepts and principles and how these understandings inform decision-making and policy in sport. This course will challenge students to examine ethical issues central to contemporary sport. Students will learn to recognize moral questions, understand various ethical theories and how to apply them to solve moral problems, and develop an appreciation for philosophic inquiry concerning a pervasive and powerful part of American society.