Assignment No. 1 (Changes in Social Perceptions on the Role and Obligations of Business)

With the aid of some examples, write a short essay (minimum 400 words) on how our perceptions of the social role and context of business have changed since the dawn of the industrial revolution.  In particular, make sure that you discuss how, and to what extent, the general social consensus on the moral obligations of business and on acceptable business practices have evolved over the last two centuries or so. 

Deadline reminder: this assignment is due on June 7. Any assignments submitted after that date will lose 5 points (i.e., 20% of the maximum score of 25 points) for each day that they are submitted late. Accordingly, after June 7, any submissions would be worth zero points and at that time the assignment inbox will close.