Reference no: EM132208642
Although corporate ethics are individual to each entity, the two overriding principles that frame the discussions are profit maximization versus social responsibility.
For this discussion, first read the following scenario from page 72 of your text:
“One of this country’s richest commercial fishing areas was devastated by a massive oil spill when an oil tanker, the Exxon Valdez, ran aground. The ship’s captain had been treated for alcoholism and returned to work. After the oil spill, his blood test showed a high level of alcohol in his blood. Following the wreck of the tanker, Exxon announced that, even after treatment, known alcohol and drug abusers won’t be allowed to return to so-called critical jobs such as piloting a ship, flying plane or operating a refinery, although they will be given other jobs. Exxon Chairman Lawrence Rawl defended the new policy by stating: “Even with close follow-up, there are certain things you can’t have people do.” United Airlines, on the other hand, has a corporate policy of regularly returning pilots to the job after they have received treatment for alcoholism. It believes that not reinstating them would be short-sighted because such a policy would discourage alcoholics from seeking help.”
Initial Post
In your initial post, include the following:
First, define ethical corporate behavior in your own words. Is this the same, or different than corporate social responsibility? Why or why not?
In the same post, make sure to address the following questions as they relate to your case:
What ethical decision(s) was/were made?
Which ethical theory do you think best epitomizes the decision(s) made?
Do you agree with the decision(s) that was/were made? Why or why not?
Do you believe that Exxon or United Airlines is demonstrating Corporate Social Responsibility? Explain how you came to your conclusion. Please use and cite (provide the URL) for at least one outside source to support your answer.