European Business Ethics agenda based on a Delphi analysis

Abstract

Abstract Purpose This paper examines the flow of thoughts on Business Ethics research lines from experts of European countries. Design/methodology/approach A Delphi method was used to achieve consensuses among the perceptions and opinions of experts about Business Ethics matters. Moreover, the research agenda is investigated using a Delphi process developed with the participation of 12 experts from eight countries (France, Spain, the UK, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, Germany, and Hungary) from March to September 2015. Findings The state of the art based on the expert panel’s consensuses on the emerging issues in Business Ethics permits the early detection of emerging lines, thus narrowing the research line and decreasing subject selection time. Additionally, an active research map has been constructed based on researchers, countries, and lines of investigation. Originality/value There is a gap in the representation of the research on certain management topics in Business Ethics, so this research will constitute a significant and valuable tool for novel researchers. It is useful for creating a research agenda.

Keywords

• Consensus
• Panel
• Europe
• Social responsibility
• Research