Description Assignment Details In Unit 2 We Further Explored

Descriptionassignment Detailsin Unit 2 We Further Explored The Ethic

In Unit 2, we further explored the ethical decision-making model that we were introduced to at the end of Unit 1. If you would like to review ethical decision-making models, read this article. Please note that this article is optional. Consider the following scenario: You are the manager of a local department store when you see a customer with her baby stealing baby formula. You are walking the aisles, checking inventory when you come around the corner and see this situation.

The customer puts the baby formula in a bag under the baby seat in the basket. The customer does not see you and continues to shop. Using the ethical decision-making approaches we have been discussing, respond to the following questions: Based on your ethical decision-making preferences and the ethical-decision making approaches, how would you respond in this situation? Identify and explain which of the ethical decision-making approaches you used to arrive at your decision. If you saw your neighbor stealing clothes for herself, would you respond differently to the situation? Why or why not?

Paper For Above instruction

Ethical decision-making models serve as vital tools for professionals and individuals facing moral dilemmas by providing structured frameworks to evaluate complex situations and guide actions aligned with moral principles. In this scenario, as a store manager witnessing a customer stealing baby formula, applying an ethical decision-making approach helps determine an appropriate response that balances moral considerations, legal obligations, and the context of the situation.

Among various models, the Utilitarian Approach would advocate for considering the consequences of actions with an aim to maximize overall happiness and reduce harm. From this perspective, the manager might assess whether confronting the customer could lead to resolving the theft without escalating conflict, or whether ignoring the act might undermine store policies and discourage honesty. If the theft is viewed as causing more harm—such as economic loss impacting store employees or other customers—the manager might feel compelled to take corrective action, such as alerting security or asking the customer to return the stolen items.

Alternatively, the Rights-Based Approach emphasizes respecting individuals’ rights and dignity. This approach would prompt the manager to consider the customer’s right to privacy and fair treatment. Confronting her openly could infringe on her rights, especially if the manager lacks sufficient evidence. Instead, the manager might choose to discreetly report the incident to security or follow store protocols that safeguard customer rights while addressing theft.

The Justice Approach, which emphasizes fairness and equitable treatment, could influence the manager to apply consistent policies for all customers, ensuring that no partiality is shown. This might translate into reporting the theft according to store procedures to maintain fairness and uphold store policies uniformly.

Regarding the second part of the scenario—if the manager observed a neighbor stealing clothes—the response might differ because of personal relationships. The Ethical Egoism approach would prioritize self-interest, but most ethical perspectives highlight the importance of social responsibility. Many would argue that helping maintain societal norms and discouraging theft aligns with moral duties, regardless of personal connection. However, some might hesitate to report a neighbor due to loyalty or fear of damaging community bonds, illustrating the conflict between personal relationships and moral obligations.

In conclusion, the decision to confront or ignore theft depends largely on the ethical framework one adopts. A utilitarian might weigh overall consequences, a rights-based approach would focus on dignity and fairness, while justice emphasizes consistent application of rules. Recognizing these frameworks aids in making morally sound decisions that reflect one's values and professional responsibilities.

References

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