This document discusses the evolution and development of business ethics as an academic field. It traces some of the earliest influences on business ethics from ancient Greek philosophers like Epicurus and Sophocles. It then outlines the development of two main approaches - utilitarianism as developed by Bentham and Mill, which focuses on maximizing happiness, and deontological ethics as developed by Kant, which focuses on duties and rules. The document also summarizes some of the strengths and criticisms of each approach. Finally, it provides an overview of how business ethics became institutionalized as an academic field from the 1970s onward through increased writings, conferences, and incorporation into university curriculums.