Does size matter? The state of the art in small business ethics

TLDR

Small firms are under‑researched in business ethics, with existing literature insufficient to draw firm conclusions and highlighting a need for exploratory work. The paper challenges the exclusive focus on large firms, proposes a research agenda for small‑firm ethics, and outlines micro, meso, and macro questions for future study.

Abstract

In this paper the exclusive focus on large firms in the field of business ethics is challenged. Some of the idiosyncrasies of small firms are explained, and links are made between these and potential ethical issues. A review of the existing literature on ethics in small firms demonstrates the lack of appropriate research, so that to date we can draw no firm conclusions in relation to ethics in the small firm. Recommendations are made as to the way forward for small firm business ethics research. Questions for investigation are suggested using micro, meso and macro perspectives. Much exploratory work needs to be done to lay the groundwork for this important area of social and commercial research in the future.