Eth201 Ethics End Of Semester Assessment 40% Weighting

Eth201 Ethicsend Of Semester Assessment 40 Weightingindividual Asse

Analyze an ethical dilemma encountered in a work or school environment, discuss related issues of corporate social responsibility (CSR), review relevant literature, describe how the dilemma was resolved, and identify a CSR activity undertaken by a Jamaican organization, evaluating its benefits.

Paper For Above instruction

Ethics in business are critical to sustaining trust, integrity, and social responsibility within organizations. This paper explores a personal ethical dilemma experienced in a work environment, examines related CSR issues, reviews pertinent literature on ethical decision-making, describes the resolution process, and analyzes a CSR initiative from a Jamaican business. The aim is to demonstrate understanding of ethical complexities, critical thinking in resolving dilemmas, and the importance of CSR in fostering sustainable business practices.

Part A: Description of the Ethical Dilemma and Possible Options

In my previous role at a retail company, I faced an ethical dilemma involving a colleague who was misreporting sales figures to meet targets. The central issue was whether to report the misconduct to management, which might have led to disciplinary action against my colleague, or to overlook the misconduct to avoid conflict. The options included (1) reporting the issue anonymously, (2) confronting the colleague directly, or (3) ignoring the situation altogether. Each option carried ethical considerations regarding honesty, loyalty, and potential repercussions. The dilemma centered on balancing integrity with personal loyalty and the consequences of each choice.

Part B: Literature Review on Ethical Dilemmas and Their Application

Ethical dilemmas are conflicts where moral obligations compete, often necessitating difficult choices (Kidder, 2005). Ethical decision-making models, such as Rest’s four-component model, suggest individuals must recognize an ethical issue, make a moral judgment, establish moral intent, and engage in moral action (Rest et al., 1999). Literature emphasizes the importance of organizational culture and ethical leadership in guiding employees through dilemmas (Brown & Treviño, 2006). The concept of corporate social responsibility extends beyond profit-making to include ethical practices that benefit stakeholders and society (Carroll, 1991). Organizations that foster ethical climates promote transparency and accountability, reducing the likelihood of misconduct (Victor & Cullen, 1988). Applying these theories, my dilemma exemplifies the tension between loyalty and integrity, highlighting the necessity for clear ethical guidelines and a supportive environment that encourages ethical conduct.

Part C: Resolution of the Dilemma and Remaining Issues

I chose to confront my colleague privately, emphasizing the importance of honesty and teamwork. The colleague admitted to the misreporting and agreed to correct the figures and amend future reports. I encouraged implementing a formal reporting mechanism and ethics training to prevent similar issues. Although the immediate problem was resolved, lingering concerns include ensuring sustained ethical behavior and fostering an organizational culture that values transparency. Additionally, addressing underlying pressures to meet targets that might incentivize misconduct remains an ongoing challenge. Continuous ethical education and leadership commitment are necessary to reinforce ethical standards and prevent recurrence.

Part D: CSR Activity by a Jamaican Business and Its Merits

One notable CSR activity in Jamaica is that undertaken by GraceKennedy Limited, a leading Jamaican conglomerate. The company’s “GraceKennedy Foundation” focuses on education, health, poverty alleviation, and community development. One significant project is the “Healthy Lifestyles Jamaica” initiative, which promotes wellness and nutrition in schools and communities. This CSR activity benefits GraceKennedy by enhancing its reputation, fostering community goodwill, and aligning its brand with social responsibility, which can translate to increased customer loyalty and employee pride (GraceKennedy Foundation, 2020). Furthermore, investing in community health and education supports sustainable development and economic growth, ultimately benefiting the business environment and society at large. Engaging in such CSR initiatives demonstrates corporate accountability and commitment to social well-being, vital for long-term success in Jamaica’s dynamic economy.

References

  • Brown, M. E., & Treviño, L. K. (2006). Ethical leadership: A review and future directions. The Leadership Quarterly, 17(6), 595-616.
  • Carroll, A. B. (1991). The pyramid of corporate social responsibility: Toward the moral management of organizational stakeholders. Business Horizons, 34(4), 39-48.
  • Kidder, R. M. (2005). How good people make tough choices: Resolving the dilemmas of ethical living. HarperOne.
  • Rest, J. R., et al. (1999). Postconventional moral thinking: A Neo-Kohlbergian approach. Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.
  • Victor, B., & Cullen, J. B. (1988). The organizational bases of ethical work climates. Administrative Science Quarterly, 33(1), 101-125.
  • GraceKennedy Foundation. (2020). CSR initiatives and community development projects. Retrieved from https://www.gracekennedylimited.com/about-us/corporate-social-responsibility
  • Kidder, R. M. (2005). How good people make tough choices: Resolving the dilemmas of ethical living. HarperOne.
  • Rest, J. R., et al. (1999). Postconventional moral thinking: A Neo-Kohlbergian approach. Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.
  • Victor, B., & Cullen, J. B. (1988). The organizational bases of ethical work climates. Administrative Science Quarterly, 33(1), 101-125.
  • Brown, M. E., & Treviño, L. K. (2006). Ethical leadership: A review and future directions. The Leadership Quarterly, 17(6), 595–616.

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