This article will compare and contrast the various interpretations of four separate authors as they relate to ethics and social responsibility as they apply to business. The four articles to review are: “Corporate Social Responsibility Is About Increasing Profits” by Milton Friedman, “The Relevance of Responsibility to Ethical Business Decisions” by Patrick E. Murphy, “What Is “Business Ethics” by Peter F. Drucker and “Be Ethical” Don't Be: An International Code of Ethics for Leadership” by Ala' Alahmad. Each of these articles represents the author's interpretations of the interplay between "business ethics" and "social responsibility", supported by external and personal research. Although neither author presents themselves as opposed to ethics or responsibility in general, there appears to be opposition in the attempt to silo these two topics into a separate business application rather than maintaining them as applicable to individuals separately from any business. (or business). Before evaluating the writings of these authors, it seems appropriate to state the generally accepted definitions of the terms "social responsibility" and "business ethics." Paraphrased from several different sources, business ethics can be defined as the written (and often "unwritten") principles that guide the actions and decisions of a business. Primarily driven by organizational culture, they determine both good and bad behavior and set the standards for decision-making. At its most basic, business ethics comes down to knowing the difference between right and wrong and choosing to do what is right because it is right rather than simply avoiding what is wrong because of its negative character. ......e the basis of actions while social responsibilities are moving goals that seem to change with each new special interest group or political change. It just seems appropriate that this relationship is not lumped together in the same discussion forum. Works Cited Alahmad, Ala. (First quarter 2010). To be ethical or not to be: an international code of ethics for leadership. Journal of Diversity Management; 5, 1; ABI/INFORM Globalpg. 31Drucker, Peter F. What is “business ethics”? (1981). Public Interest, 63, 18-36.Milton Friedman. (1970, September 13). The social responsibility of business is to increase profits. The New York Times Magazine. Copyright @ 1970 by The New York Times Company. Murphy, Patrick E. (2009). The relevance of accountability for ethical business decisions. Journal of Business Ethics. DOI 10.1007/s10551-010-0378-4