This text is the first to put ethical issues in a cultural and historical context, based on the premise that ethical problems arise from myriad of cultural forces. Sections focus on ethics in postmodern America and how to effectively make decisions in a contemporary society; ethical philosophers—from Plato to Foucault—and their beliefs; and how to apply the these philosophers' teachings to ethical issues in areas such as journalism, public relations, and the music industry. Case studies include Nike's labor practices, September 11 and the news, the South Park cartoon, the NFL, and the advertising of prescription medicine.