Review The Following Articles To Assist With This Assignment

Review The Following Articles To Assist You With This Assignment

Review the following articles to assist you with this assignment: Bribery Article 1 Bribery Article 2 Step 2 Discuss the following: What is the dilemma that each organization is facing? Explore whether bribery is right or wrong, and discuss using ethical relativism principles. Identify the cultural differences in bribery practices. A minimum of 1 reference should be used to reinforce your thoughts. Be sure to include it both as an in-text citation and on your reference page. Use 12-point font and 1" margins. Please submit your assignment. References Kestenbaum, D. (2010, April 22). Bribery in India: A good thing? Retrieved from Markowitz, E. (2012, April 27). The truth about bribery and doing foreign business. Retrieved from For assistance with your assignment, please use your text, Web resources, and all course materials.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Bribery, a pervasive ethical issue in international business, presents complex dilemmas for organizations operating across diverse cultural landscapes. This paper explores the ethical conflicts faced by organizations engaged in bribery, analyzing whether such practices are morally justifiable through the lens of ethical relativism. Additionally, it examines cultural differences influencing bribery practices and considers the implications for global business ethics.

The Ethical Dilemmas Faced by Organizations

Organizations often encounter dilemmas involving bribery when trying to secure contracts, facilitate approvals, or gain competitive advantages in foreign markets. As highlighted by Kestenbaum (2010), in India, some view bribery as a necessary and sometimes beneficial practice to expedite bureaucratic processes, representing a cultural perspective that normalizes such activities. Conversely, other organizations, influenced by Western ethical standards, perceive bribery as morally wrong and detrimental to fair competition.

These conflicting perspectives create dilemmas where organizations must decide whether to adhere to local customs or uphold international ethical standards. For instance, Markowitz (2012) emphasizes the tension faced by multinational companies when navigating bribery laws that vary by country. The dilemma intensifies as organizations grapple with potential legal repercussions, damage to reputation, and moral considerations.

Ethical Relativism and the Morality of Bribery

Ethical relativism posits that moral standards are culturally dependent, suggesting that what is considered right or wrong varies across societies. From this viewpoint, bribery practices accepted in one culture may be deemed unethical in another. Kestenbaum (2010) illustrates this by discussing how bribery can be viewed as a cultural norm in India, where it might facilitate economic growth and development in certain contexts. Under ethical relativism, therefore, bribery is not inherently wrong but is judged relative to cultural norms.

However, critics argue that ethical relativism can justify unethical practices if they are culturally accepted, potentially undermining universal principles of integrity and justice. Markowitz (2012) notes that Western countries often regard bribery as corruption that hampers fair business conduct, suggesting a universal ethical standard that condemns such practices. The tension lies in balancing respect for cultural differences with the enforcement of ethical norms that promote transparency and fairness globally.

Cultural Differences in Bribery Practices

Cultural contexts significantly influence perceptions and practices of bribery. In some societies, like China and India, bribery is intertwined with social relationships, favoritism, and bureaucratic processes, often viewed as a means to foster goodwill and expedite services (Kestenbaum, 2010). Conversely, in Western countries like the United States and European nations, strict anti-bribery laws reflect a cultural stance that condemns corruption as inherently unethical and harmful to economic development.

The cultural-relativist perspective suggests that these differences should be acknowledged and respected, encouraging culturally sensitive approaches to combating bribery. However, global organizations face challenges when ethical standards diverge sharply, leading to potential conflicts between respecting local customs and adhering to international anti-corruption policies (Markowitz, 2012).

Conclusion

The issue of bribery in international business exemplifies a profound ethical dilemma influenced by cultural relativism. While some cultures accept bribery as part of their social and economic fabric, others perceive it as corrupt and morally wrong. Organizations must navigate these conflicting perspectives carefully, balancing respect for cultural differences with the need to promote ethical standards that foster fairness, transparency, and sustainable economic development worldwide. Ultimately, a nuanced understanding of cultural contexts and ethical principles is crucial in addressing the complex challenges posed by bribery in global commerce.

References

Kestenbaum, D. (2010, April 22). Bribery in India: A good thing? Retrieved from https://www.example.com

Markowitz, E. (2012, April 27). The truth about bribery and doing foreign business. Retrieved from https://www.example.com