BUS 363 – Global Issues in Business Ethics

Four Credits, EXP
1.5 weeks on campus; 2.5 weeks in Japan
Professor Joel Adams

Global Issues in Business Ethics: Japan engages students at the intersection of tradition, innovation, and ethics in one of the world's most fascinating economies. Through business visits, cultural experiences, and real-world conversations in Kyoto and Tokyo, students will explore how Japanese companies respond to major global challenges, especially in sustainability and tech.

Japan offers a unique setting for this kind of learning, where centuries-old values meet some of the most advanced industries in the world.

We'll start in Kyoto, visiting businesses that lead in sustainable practices and ethical entrepreneurship. These include a zero-waste supermarket using innovative tech and partnerships, a hands-on tour with local architects restoring historic homes, and a talk with the founder of a long-standing fair-trade shop. Each visit gives a glimpse into how Japanese firms mix cultural tradition with practical ethics in a changing world.

We'll also dive into the ethical challenges around emerging technologies. Japan is a major player in AI, robotics, and biotech-and with that comes a host of tough questions. We'll look at how these firms think about long-term impacts, data privacy, and the role of technology in society. Through site visits to companies like NEC and Hitachi, and conversations with leaders in the field, students will explore how Japanese businesses tackle these issues with a blend of innovation and responsibility.

Outside the classroom, students will take part in a range of cultural activities designed to deepen their understanding of Japan's ethical worldview. Highlights include Zen meditation at a 1,300-year-old temple, a traditional tea ceremony, textile dyeing with local artisans, and walking tours of Kyoto's famous shrines and temples. Three nights in Tokyo during the trip offer time for business visits and additional cultural exploration.

The course culminates in a debate where students synthesize course content with their experiences. This course counts as a BUS international elective and is great for students interested in ethics, sustainability, or global business.

For more info, contact Professor Adams at jadams2@wlu.edu.

Applications open October 7th, 2025.