Final answer:
The foundation of ethics according to the ethical maturity model (EMM) is personal ethical understanding. It is a critical aspect that informs the individual's ability to apply ethics in various situations and is influenced by conscience, compassion, empathy, and continuous moral inquiry.
Step-by-step explanation:
The foundation of ethics, according to the ethical maturity model (EMM), is personal ethical understanding. This understanding is at the core of ethical decision-making and represents the individual's comprehension of moral principles and values. This level of personal ethical awareness is critical as it informs a person's ability to apply ethics in various situations, including business contexts.
There are several key factors that contribute to the formation of a personal ethical understanding. This includes the development of conscience, which can be seen as an internal sense of right and wrong that guides individual behavior. Philosophers such as Mencius argue that compassion and empathy are important virtues that lead to ethical behavior. Furthermore, as individuals engage in moral inquiry and examine their fundamental principles and values, they enhance their capability for ethical thinking and define their moral personhood.
While the EMM establishes personal ethical understanding as its foundation, it does not operate in isolation. Aspects such as ethical courage, ethical leadership, and the application of ethics to business situations build upon this foundation, and are essential for the full expression and realization of ethical behavior in various contexts of life and work.