Reference no: EM132250514
Downsizing Boss Case
For the past two years, you have worked in the supplies warehouse of the City Electric Company. Even though you worked hard, you felt fortunate - until this week - to have a job with good pay, medical benefits, and career opportunities. The bad news came that effective November 1, City Electric Company would dismiss several hundred employees, including you. Although City Electric maintains that the downsizing is necessary, your coworkers and you are angry that the layoffs are coming after a year of record profits for the company. Some employees suspect that the owners are just being selfish and short-sighted.
The day after the announcement of layoffs, you noticed that supplies were disappearing from the warehouse. Tools, toolboxes, raincoats, gloves, and rolls of expensive copper wire were gone. However, Mr. Roberts (your supervisor) said, "Don't worry. I've seen this kind of thing before. The employees are just trying to get even with a company that they think has betrayed them, and I think the company almost expects this type of behavior. Officially, I won't report any theft. I'm angry about these layoffs, too! As far as I'm concerned, we just didn't order enough supplies this month. Don't get too greedy, but take a few things home with you today if you want to."
1) What ethical issues or questions do you see in this case?
2) What should you do? Why?