General Information

Course Description

The primary aim of this course is to explore the role of ethics and governance within Islamic economics and financial institutions. The course begins with a discussion on the meaning and foundations of ethics, before moving into real-life ethical dilemmas—cases where the distinction between right and wrong is not always clear-cut. Students will be encouraged to critically analyze such conundrums, debate alternative perspectives, and reflect on how ethical reasoning shapes individual and institutional behavior.

In addition to ethics, the course examines the structures of governance in Islamic financial institutions, with a focus on Shariah compliance, regulatory frameworks, best practices, and strategic alignment with long-term stakeholder value. By linking ethical principles with governance mechanisms, students will gain an integrated understanding of how policies, decisions, and behaviors influence the credibility and sustainability of Islamic institutions.

Expectations and Goals

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate a solid understanding of ethical concepts and theories, particularly as they relate to Islamic economics.
• Analyze complex ethical dilemmas where the “right” choice may not be obvious, and defend their reasoning with clarity and evidence.
• Identify and assess the consequences of ethical and governance breaches within Islamic financial institutions.
• Apply governance frameworks and best practices to promote integrity, transparency, and accountability in organizational contexts.
• Develop the ability to link ethical reflection with practical decision-making in Islamic economic and financial settings.