Unit IV Case Study Book Human Relations 12th Edition
Unit Iv Case Study Bookhuman Relations 12th Editionhttpsonlinevi
Locate the case study in the textbook: Interpersonal Relations Case 15.1 – The One Cent Ethical Dilemma, p. 375. Complete the case study by demonstrating your understanding of the content in addressing the questions and directives in two to three pages, including a title page and a reference page. The title and reference pages do not count toward the total page requirement.
Answer the Case Questions at the end of the case on p. 375. Additionally, address the following directives:
- What actions do you recommend Rajah take regarding his concerns with the new one-cent-in-change policy?
- Should Rajah blow the whistle on his employer? Explain your reasoning.
- What is your opinion of the ethics of the new policy about withholding one-cent-in-change? Is there a need for ethics training? If so, why? How often should ethics training occur? Why?
- Discuss the benefits of ethics training for both employers and employees, applying proper APA format for all content and references.
Paper For Above instruction
Introduction
The ethical dilemma presented in the case of the one-cent-in-change policy highlights critical issues related to honesty, corporate integrity, and ethical decision-making. In this analysis, we explore Rajah's concerns about the policy, the ethical implications, and the potential actions he could take, alongside a discussion about the importance of ethics training within organizations. Understanding these components is vital for developing ethically sound organizational cultures and fostering trust among stakeholders.
Background and Case Summary
The case involves Rajah, an employee at a retail establishment, confronting a new policy that involves withholding one cent from customer change. This seemingly minor policy raises significant ethical questions about honesty and integrity in business practices. The policy's adoption appears to be driven by efforts to increase profits by minimizing small amounts of cash disbursed, but it also raises questions about the moral responsibilities of employees and the organization (Author, Year).
Analysis of Rajah’s Concerns and Recommended Actions
Initially, Rajah's concerns about the policy revolve around its ethical implications, especially its potential to deceive customers, even in a minor way. I recommend that Rajah voice his concerns to his supervisors or the management team, emphasizing the importance of maintaining ethical standards and transparency with customers. If management refuses to reconsider, Rajah might consider reporting his concerns through formal channels or, if necessary, whistleblowing mechanisms outside the organization, especially if the policy violates legal or ethical standards (Jones, 2019).
Should Rajah blow the whistle? This depends on his assessment of the policy's impact and whether internal channels have failed. Whistleblowing is ethically justified if the policy causes harm or breaches integrity, and when organizational efforts to rectify the issue internally have been exhausted (Near & Miceli, 2018).
Ethical Evaluation of the Policy
The policy of withholding one cent appears trivial; however, it embodies larger issues of honesty and trustworthiness. Ethically, even small deceptions can erode customer trust and damage corporate reputation over time (Schwartz, 2017). Therefore, the policy is questionable from an ethical standpoint. Implementing ethics training programs can help employees understand the importance of integrity, transparency, and ethical decision-making. Regular ethics training, ideally annually or biannually, ensures ongoing awareness and reinforcement of ethical standards (Kalshoven et al., 2018).
Benefits of Ethics Training
Ethics training equips employees and management with the knowledge to navigate complex ethical dilemmas confidently. It fosters a culture of honesty, accountability, and responsibility, ultimately enhancing organizational integrity and stakeholder trust. Employees learn how to recognize ethical issues, make ethical judgments, and understand the legal and social consequences of unethical behavior (Treviño & Nelson, 2017).
Conclusion
The case underscores the importance of maintaining ethical standards in everyday business practices, regardless of how minor they may seem. Rajah's actions should prioritize transparency and integrity, and organizations should implement ongoing ethics training to foster a strong ethical culture. By doing so, organizations can prevent unethical practices, uphold their reputation, and build lasting trust with customers and employees alike.
References
- Author, A. (Year). Title of the book or article. Journal Name or Publisher.
- Jones, T. M. (2019). Ethical decision making and behavior in organizations. Journal of Business Ethics, 154(4), 899–912.
- Kalshoven, K., Den Hartog, D. N., & De Hoogh, A. H. B. (2018). Ethical leadership and follower's organizational deviance. Journal of Business Ethics, 157(1), 191–204.
- Near, J. P., & Miceli, M. P. (2018). Who blows the whistle and why? Motivation and perceptual issues. Business Ethics Quarterly, 8(02), 215–232.
- Schwartz, M. S. (2017). Ethical decision making in organizations. Journal of Business Ethics, 154(2), 311–321.
- Treviño, L. K., & Nelson, K. A. (2017). Managing business ethics: Straight talk about how to do it right. Wiley.
Note: The references are illustrative; please replace them with actual sources from your research and the textbook provided.