14 Jan Critical thinking: Demonstrates

ETH501 Business Ethics

Module 1 Discussion

Discussion: Ethics at Work

In this first discussion, our class will take a look at how rare or rampant unethical behaviors are related to some aspect of work.

Early in the first week of Module 1, share one or more work experience that you have been exposed to or have read about that might be viewed as unethical. Describe the situation(s) in as much detail as you feel comfortable with (keeping names and locations anonymous).

Which ethical philosophy (or philosophies) relate to the situations you describe?

How did the situations turn out?

Remember in this discussion forum you should respond with substantial detail to this topic early in the module’s first week. This will be your “initial post.” For your initial discussion also bring in information from at least one background source or your own research to help inform your classmates. Cite the source.

Then by week 2 of the module, you are to respond to the posts of at least two of your classmates. Your responses should have depth of critical thought and not simply agree or disagree. For each response also bring in information from at least one background source or your own research to help inform your classmates. Cite the source.

Assignment Expectations

Each post should be about 250-300 words.

Discussion posts will be assessed according to the following criteria on the discussion rubric:

Quality of initial posting (first discussion only): Initial posting reveals a clear understanding of all aspects of the discussion question; uses factual and relevant information; and demonstrates full development of concepts.

Quality of Responses to Classmates: Responds to the required number of students and to the professor, if appropriate. Demonstrates analysis of others’ posts; extends meaningful discussions by building on previous peer posts, and offers alternative perspectives.

Reference to supporting readings/information literacy: Refers to and properly cites either course and/or outside readings in posts, as required.

Critical thinking: Demonstrates mastery conceptualizing the problem; viewpoints and assumptions of experts are analyzed, synthesized, and evaluated; and conclusions are logically presented with appropriate rationale.

Timeliness: Initial post occurs in a timely manner (1-3 days into module) allowing ample time for classmates to respond and engage.

ETH501 Business Ethics

Module 2 Discussion

Is Love all you need?

Philosopher and historian Martin Buber (1878–1965) taught that love is not a feeling but a responsibility of one person for another. Feelings may come and go, but the solidarity that people have with each other and the care they take with one another define them as human beings. Thus, love, as responsibility, depends on relationships based on good faith and concern. Business, too, is about relationships. Without a relationship of trust, there can be no exchange of goods or services upon which economies are built.

Many people question the place of love in a business setting. When seen from Buber’s perspective, however, love is not an idyllic feeling, but a driving force for justice and care. This does not deny the need for profit and financial success. It simply emphasizes the other side of the twofold purpose of business (profit and responsibility). In fact, John Mackey, the founder of Whole Foods, has said that love has been the basis of his success in business, which translates into care and concern for customers beyond profit and for workers beyond productivity.

If there is anything that transcends time, place, and culture, it is love. The search for a universally applied set of ethics always comes back to it. But what does love look like in a business setting?

IBM expresses their mission: “[IBM] remain[s] dedicated to leading the world into a more prosperous and progressive future; to creating a world that is fairer, more diverse, more tolerant, more just” (Byers and Stanberry, 2018).

Can Martin Buber’s notion of love play a role in business? Why or why not?

If so, what would that look like?

What responsibilities do companies have regarding justice and care?

Should business ethics be grounded on more concrete tenets? Why or why not?

Note:

Remember in this discussion forum you should respond with substantial detail to this topic early in week 1 of the module. This will be your “initial post.” For your initial post also bring in information from at least one background source or your own research to help inform your classmates. Cite the source.

Then by week 2 of the module, you are to respond to the posts of at least two of your classmates. Your responses should have depth of critical thought and not simply agree or disagree. For each response also bring in information from at least one background source or your own research to help inform your classmates. Cite the source.

Assignment Expectations

Each post should be about 250-300 words.

Discussion posts will be assessed according to the following criteria on the discussion rubric:

Quality of initial posting (first discussion only): Initial posting reveals a clear understanding of all aspects of the treated discussion question; uses factual and relevant information; and demonstrates full development of concepts.

Quality of Responses to Classmates: Responds to the required number of students and to the professor, if appropriate. Demonstrates analysis of others’ posts; extends meaningful discussions by building on previous peer posts; and offers alternative perspectives.

Reference to supporting readings/information literacy: Refers to and properly cites either course and/or outside readings in posts, as required.

Critical thinking: Demonstrates mastery conceptualizing the problem; viewpoints and assumptions of experts are analyzed, synthesized, and evaluated; and conclusions are logically presented with appropriate rationale.

Timeliness: Initial post occurs in a timely manner (1-3 days into module) allowing ample time for classmates to respond and engage.

ETH501 Business Ethics

Module 3 Discussion

Discussion: Growing Up with a Start-Up

In the summer of 1970, a college senior named Paul Orfalea opened a store near the University of California, Santa Barbara, campus. He called it “Kinko’s” after his own nickname, and, with his partners, he sold college school supplies and around-the-clock copying services for students. After twenty-five years, Kinko’s had grown to 1,200 stores and 23,000 employees, and Orfalea privately and lucratively sold it to FedEx.

Over the many years that Orfalea ran his start-up, his business became amazingly profitable, but also imposed enormous stress on him and his founding partners and coworkers. As he put it, “I don’t hide the fact that I have a problem with anger.” Since selling the company, Orfalea has spent many years mending relationships with those who worked most closely with him while he was building it.

What contributed to the tensions Orfalea felt while managing this burgeoning enterprise? Long hours, of course, but also the need he felt to sustain his initial success, to make each year more profitable than the last. Entrepreneurs often believe they are only as successful as their last quarter’s profit and are driven to exceed it. Orfalea also felt that he alone was equipped to call others to account and veto what he felt were bad business ideas. Anger became a chief enemy he battled.

“In my mid- to late-forties,” he said, “I struggled increasingly to manage my own emotional nature. Sometimes I felt I’d created a monster. The monster wasn’t Kinko’s, it was me.” Orfalea acknowledged the anger and resentment that he often felt toward other longtime staff at the company, which overpowered the respect that he knew he owed them. Consequently, he directed comments and actions at his colleagues that he has spent many subsequent years attempting to redress. All in all, he has labored diligently to repair friendships that he admits were frayed by his behavior alone.

Image retrieved from https://search.creativecommons.org/search?q=copy%20machine&provider&li&lt&searchBy

After reflection, Orfalea now offers these recommendations to prospective entrepreneurs:

• Do not give way to your anger in the midst of the frustrating turns business inevitably takes.

• Do not take that anger home with you, either.

• Finally, try to be the person you most genuinely are, both at work and at home.

It took Orfalea time to learn these lessons, but they are worthwhile for any would-be entrepreneur to ponder.

• What price would you be willing to pay to pursue an entrepreneurial career?

• What price would you demand from your partners in the business?

• How long could you let work monopolize your life?

• In your opinion, was Orfalea right to manage Kinko’s the way he did as it grew?

• Were the worries, anxieties, and bad moods he experienced inevitable? How would you avoid these?

Source: Byers and Stanberry, pg. 270.

Note:

Remember in this discussion forum you should respond with substantial detail to this topic early in week 1 of the module. This will be your “initial post.” For your initial post also bring in information from at least one background source or your own research to help inform your classmates. Cite the source.

Then by week 2 of the module, you are to respond to the posts of at least two of your classmates. Your responses should have depth of critical thought and not simply agree or disagree. For each response also bring in information from at least one background source or your own research to help inform your classmates. Cite the source.

Assignment Expectations

Each post should be about 250-300 words.

Discussion posts will be assessed according to the following criteria on the discussion rubric:

Quality of initial posting (first discussion only): Initial posting reveals a clear understanding of all aspects of the treated discussion question; uses factual and relevant information; and demonstrates full development of concepts.

Quality of Responses to Classmates: Responds to the required number of students and to the professor, if appropriate. Demonstrates analysis of others’ posts; extends meaningful discussions by building on previous peer posts and offers alternative perspectives.

Reference to supporting readings/information literacy: Refers to and properly cites either course and/or outside readings in posts, as required.

Critical thinking: Demonstrates mastery conceptualizing the problem; viewpoints and assumptions of experts are analyzed, synthesized, and evaluated; and conclusions are logically presented with appropriate rationale.

Timeliness: Initial post occurs in a timely manner (1-3 days into module) allowing ample time for classmates to respond and engage.

ETH501 Business Ethics

Module 4 Discussion

Hmmm, What Do I Think About this Course?

In the Module 4 Reflective Discussion, please reflect on everything you have learned in this course, by addressing the following:

Paragraphs 1-3:

Given the readings and assignments in the course, identify and discuss three important concepts applicable to your work experience, profession, and/or career plans for the future. Describe how each applies.

Paragraph 4:

What part of the course (background materials, assignments, and so forth) helped to shape, reshape, or solidify your views on the following: Does ethics matter?

Note: No outside research or citations are needed with your four paragraphs to the Reflective Discussion. Also, no responses to your peers’ posts are needed.

After responding to the Reflective Discussion questions above, please complete an anonymous Course Evaluation Survey. Instructors are not able to view course evaluation reports until after the grade submission period is over. Thank you for your feedback.

ETH501 Business Ethics

Module 1 Case

FOR A SUCCESSFUL START—BUSINESS ETHICS

Assignment Overview

This assignment provides you the opportunity to learn about ethical business behavior that is all around us.

Read Cases from the Real World: Competition and the Markers of Business Success, found in the following:

Byars, S. and Stanberry, Kurt (2018). Why ethics matter, chapter 1. Business Ethics. Rice University, OpenStax. Retrieved from http://cnx.org/content/col25722/1.3 pg. 15. CC BY 4.0 license

Also view the following interviews with Warren Buffett:

CBS Sunday Morning (2017). Sunday Profile with Warren Buffett. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=168&v=O665cNwMVGw. Standard YouTube license.

PBS NewsHour (2017). America should stand for more than just wealth, says Warren Buffett. Retrieved from

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S6irBmOnQEc. Standard YouTube license.

“It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you’ll do things differently.” Warren Buffett

What is an ethical leader? These individuals lead by example and exemplify ethical decision making and conduct focused on a common good. They are known to act with integrity and inspire respect among peers, constituents, and subordinates. Successful ethical leaders are champions of their beliefs and communicate them throughout an organization to develop a supportive culture.

In this assignment you have the opportunity to learn about Warren Buffett as well as another business leader of a well-known company or corporation of your choice that you have not had an opportunity to study yet. (Select a leader you are unfamiliar with.)

Keep in mind that all people possess virtues and vices, and while they may strive to support ethical tenets, they may fail at times.

It might be helpful for you to review the following lists of virtues and vices to see examples.

Niche Partners PTY Ltd. (n.d.). A list of the 52 virtues. http://www.52virtues.com/virtues/the-52-virtues.php

VirtueScience.com (n.d.). List of vices. Retrieved from https://www.virtuescience.com/vicelist.html

Case Assignment

Address the following in a 3- to 4-page essay, demonstrating your critical-thinking skills:

Discuss Warren Buffett’s approach to business dealings, especially as they relate to business ethics.

Apply ethical philosophies that you have learned about in this Module and state which you think apply to Mr. Buffett.

Bring in two of Mr. Buffett’s quotes that pertain to business ethics and discuss their meaning.

Compare and contrast your chosen leader’s behaviors to what you have learned about Warren Buffett.

This assignment should include third-person voice. Write a well-integrated paper with a strong introduction and conclusion, and use a few section headings (e.g., do not simply follow a Q & A format).

Bring in your Module background information. Whether or not you bring in sources outside of this Module is up to you. For all sources used, provide in-text citations and a references list.

General References Useful for Preparing Graduate-Level Papers:

For a list of general reference sources related to locating library sources, using APA formatting, applying critical-thinking skills, and so forth, see General References Useful for Preparing Graduate-Level Papers. It is not required that you read these sources page-by-page, but rather use them as guides.

Assignment Expectations

Your submission will be evaluated using the following criteria from the Case grading rubric, located in the Case dropbox:

Assignment-driven criteria: Covers all key elements of the assignment in a substantive way.

Critical thinking: Conceptualizes the problem. Multiple information sources, expert opinion, and assumptions are analyzed, synthesized, and critically evaluated. Logically consistent conclusions are presented with appropriate rationale.

Business writing: Mastery in written communications and a skilled, knowledgeable, and error-free presentation to an appropriately specialized audience.

Effective use of information: Locates relevant and quality sources of information, using strong and compelling content to support ideas, convey understanding of the topic, and shape the whole work.

Citing sources: Mastery using in-text citations of sources, proper format for quotations, and correct format of full-source information in the reference list using APA style (bibliography).

Timeliness: Assignment submitted on time or collaborated with professor for an approved extension on due date.

ETH501 Business Ethics

Module 1 SLP

FOR A SUCCESSFUL START—BUSINESS ETHICS

Signature Assignment for Written Communications – Introduced Level

Goal of this Session Long Project:

This assignment is the first of four SLPs where you will build a bank of takeaways pertaining to ethical and/or unethical behaviors.

After reviewing this SLP scenario:

Express your reactions

Apply your own background/experiences

State important takeaways

Add other comments you would like to make

Your SLP submission should be 2 to 3 pages of text, well organized, well written, and 100% error free. You may use first-or third-person voice. Write in full sentences. Demonstrate your critical-thinking skills. No outside reference materials are required (unless specifically stated); however add applicable course material. Be creative (for example, add color and/or small graphics) to enhance your writing.

An Out-of-Control Streetcar

A classic ethical dilemma considers an out-of-control streetcar and a switch operator’s array of bad choices. Watch the video on the streetcar thought experiment (https://openstax.org/l/53streetcar).

Source: Byars and Stanberry (2018), page 47 CC BY

Written Communications Emphasis

The grading rubric for Written Communications has been developed to measure student success in meeting the ETH501 SLP 1 “introduced” expectations related to written communications. Other assessments of written communications at the “reinforced” and “emphasized” levels are included in future assignments in courses designed for that purpose.

General References Useful for Preparing Graduate-Level Papers:

For a list of general reference sources related to locating library sources, using APA formatting, applying critical thinking skills, and so forth, see General References Useful for Preparing Graduate-Level Papers. It is not required that you read these sources page-by-page, but rather you use them as guides.

SLP Assignment Expectations

This signature assignment for written communications (introduced level) will be assessed utilizing the following rubric criteria:

Context and purpose for writing: A thorough understanding of context, audience, and purpose that is responsive to the assigned task(s) and focuses all elements of the work.

Content: Uses appropriate, relevant, and compelling content to illustrate mastery of the subject, conveying the writer’s understanding, and shaping the whole work.

Adherence to conventions in specific disciplines, syntax control, and mechanics: Detailed attention to and successful execution of a wide range of conventions particular to a specific discipline and/or writing tasks(s) including organization, content, presentation, formatting, stylistic choices, and subject-appropriate language that skillfully communicates meaning to readers with clarity, and is error-free.

Sources and Evidence: Demonstrates skillful use of high-quality, credible, relevant sources to develop ideas that are appropriate for the discipline and genre of the writing.

Citing Sources: Mastery using in-text citations of sources, proper format for quotations, and correctly formats full source information in the reference list using APA style (bibliography).

ETH501 Business Ethics

Module 2 Case

CULTURE, TIME, AND BUSINESS ETHICS

Assignment Overview

This case assignment for this module looks at an update of Nike and the ongoing issue of sweatshops. The Case is found in:

Byars, S. and Stanberry, Kurt (2018). Impact of Culture and Time on Business Ethics, chapter 5. Business Ethics. Rice University, OpenStax. Retrieved from http://cnx.org/content/col25722/1.3 pg. 138. CC BY 4.0 license

Overseas Manufacturing

How can the purchase of a pair of sneakers be seen as an ethical act? Throughout the 1990s, the U.S. shoe and sportswear manufacturer Nike was widely criticized for subcontracting with factories in China and Southeast Asia that were little more than sweatshops with deplorable working conditions. After responding to the criticisms and demanding that its suppliers improve their workplaces, the company began to redeem itself in the eyes of many and has become a model of business ethics and sustainability. However, questions remain about the relationship between business and government.

For instance, should a company advocate for labor rights, a minimum wage, and unionization in developing countries where it has operations? What responsibility does it have for the welfare of a contractor’s workers in a culture with differing customs? What right does any Western company have to insist that its foreign contractors observe in their factories the protocols required in the West? What, for example, is sacred about an eight-hour workday? When Nike demands that foreign manufacturers observe Western laws and customs about the workplace, arguably this is capitalist imperialism. Not only that, but Western firms will be charged more for concessions regarding factory conditions. Perhaps this is as it should be, but Western consumers must then be prepared to pay more for material goods than in the past.

Some argue that demanding that companies accept these responsibilities imposes cultural standards on another culture through economic pressure. Others insist there should be universal standards of humane employee treatment, and that they must be met regardless of where they come from or who imposes them. But should the market dictate such standards, or should the government?

The rise of artificial intelligence and robotics will complicate this challenge because, in time, they may make offshoring the manufacture and distribution of goods unnecessary. It may be cheaper and more efficient to bring these operations back to developed countries and use robotic systems instead. What would that mean for local cultures and their economies? In Nike’s case, automation is already a concern, particularly as competition from its German rival, Adidas, heats up again.

For the Case 2 assignment review:

Nike sweatshops: Behind the swoosh. (2011). Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1097&v=M5uYCWVfuPQ. YouTube license.

And,

Bain, M. (2017). Nike is facing a new wave of anti-sweatshop protests. Quartz. Retrieved from https://qz.com/1042298/nike-is-facing-a-new-wave-of-anti-sweatshop-protests/

Mintz, S. (May 2012). Social responsibilities of a U.S. company doing business abroad. Retrieved from https://www.ethicssage.com/2012/05/social-responsibilities-of-a-us-company-doing-business-abroad.html

St. Clair, J. (September 2018). Nike’s bad air. Retrieved from https://www.counterpunch.org/2018/09/10/105150/

Case Assignment

Address the following in a 3- to 4-page academic essay that demonstrates your critical-thinking skills. It should be written for an audience of employers who are looking to expand their business overseas where labor costs are less than in the U.S. As an ethics expert, you have been asked to address the following:

Should a company advocate for labor rights, a minimum wage, and unionization in developing countries where it has operations?

What right does a Western company have to insist that its foreign contractors observe in their factories the protocols required in the West?

What ethical responsibilities do individual consumers have when dealing with companies that rely on overseas labor?

Should businesses adopt universal workplace standards about working conditions and employee protections? Why or why not?

This assignment should include third-person voice. Write a well-integrated paper with a strong introduction and conclusion, and use a few section headings (e.g., do not simply follow a Q & A format).

Bring in your Module background information. Whether or not you bring in sources outside of this Module is up to you. For all sources used, provide in-text citations and a references list.

General References Useful for Preparing Graduate-Level Papers:

For a list of general reference sources related to locating library sources, using APA formatting, applying critical-thinking skills, and so forth, see General References Useful for Preparing Graduate-Level Papers. It is not required that you read these sources page-by-page, but rather you use them as guides.

Assignment Expectations

Your submission will be evaluated using the following criteria from the Case grading rubric, located in the Case dropbox:

Assignment-driven criteria: Covers all key elements of the assignment in a substantive way.

Critical thinking: Conceptualizes the problem. Multiple information sources, expert opinion, and assumptions are analyzed, synthesized, and critically evaluated. Logically consistent conclusions are presented with appropriate rationale.

Business writing: Mastery in written communications and a skilled, knowledgeable, and error-free presentation to an appropriately specialized audience.

Effective use of information: Locates relevant and quality sources of information, using strong and compelling content to support ideas, convey understanding of the topic, and shape the whole work.

Citing sources: Mastery using in-text citations of sources, proper format for quotations, and correct format of full-source information in the reference list using APA style (bibliography).

Timeliness: Assignment submitted on time or collaborated with professor for an approved extension on due date.

ETH501 Business Ethics

Module 2 SLP

CULTURE, TIME, AND BUSINESS ETHICS

Signature Assignment for Information Literacy—Introduced Level

Goal of this Session Long Project:

This assignment is the second of four SLPs where you will be building a bank of takeaways pertaining to ethical and/or unethical behaviors.

Begin by reading the following scenario for SLP 2:

When Even Doctors Smoked

From the 1940s to the 1970s, cigarettes were as common as water bottles are today. Nearly everyone smoked, from judges in court to factory workers and pregnant women. Edward Bernays, the Austrian-American founder of the field of public relations, promoted smoking among women in a 1929 campaign in New York City in which he marketed Lucky Strike cigarettes as “torches of freedom” that would lead to equality between men and women.

However, by the late 1960s, and in the wake of the release of the landmark Surgeon General’s report on “Smoking and Health” on January 11, 1964, it had become clear that there was a direct link between cigarette smoking and lung cancer. Subsequent research has added heart and lung diseases, stroke, and diabetes. Smoking has decreased in Western countries but remains well established in the global East and South, where cigarette manufacturers actively promote the products in markets like Brazil, China, Russia, and Singapore, especially among young people.

Are such practices ethical? Why or why not?

Source: Byars and Stanberry (2018), pgs. 140-141.

This assignment asks you to:

Express your reactions

Apply your own background/experiences

State important takeaways

Add other comments you would like to make

Your SLP submission should be 2- to 3-pages of text, well organized, well written, and 100% error free. You may use first- or third-person voice. Write in full sentences and demonstrate your critical-thinking skills. Be creative (for example, add color and/or small graphics).

Note: In this SLP we have introduced the importance of library research. Going forward also support your arguments with sources from the Trident Online Library. This is an expectation at the graduate level.

Additional Requirements for this SLP Assignment:

Utilize 3 sources of information from the Trident Online Library, one from each of the following:

A book from Skillsoft Books 24×7

A periodical from ProQuest Central

An Internet source

Include an Appendix at the end of your paper (add it just after your References page). In the appendix for each source discuss why you chose to use it in your paper, and discuss what factors you used to determine they were appropriate.

Information Literacy Emphasis

The grading rubric for Information Literacy has been developed to measure student success in meeting the ETH501 SLP 2 “introduced” expectations related to Information Literacy. Other assessments of information literacy at the “reinforced” and “emphasized” levels are included in future assignments in courses designed for that purpose.

General References Useful for Preparing Graduate-Level Papers:

For a list of general reference sources related to locating library sources, using APA formatting, applying critical-thinking skills, and so forth, see General References Useful for Preparing Graduate-Level Papers.It is not required that you read these sources page-by-page, but rather you refer to them for guidance.

SLP Assignment Expectations

This assignment will be assessed on the following criteria in the Information Literacy rubric:

Determine the extent of the information needed: Effectively defines the scope of the research question and determines key concepts. Types of information (sources) selected directly relate to concepts or answer research question.

Access the needed information: Accesses information using effective, well-designed search strategies and most appropriate information sources.

Evaluate information and its sources critically: Thoroughly (systematically and methodically) analyzes own and others’ assumptions and carefully evaluates the relevance of contexts when presenting a position.

Use information effectively to accomplish a specific purpose: Communicates, organizes, and synthesizes information from sources to fully achieve a specific purpose, with clarity and depth.

Access and use information ethically and legally: Correctly uses all of the following information use strategies (use of citations and references; choice of paraphrasing, summary, or quoting; using information in ways that are true to original context; distinguishing between common knowledge and ideas requiring attribution) and demonstrates a full understanding of the ethical and legal restrictions on the use of published, confidential, and/or proprietary information.

Timeliness: Assignment submitted on time or delivered late with instructor’s approval.

ETH501 Business Ethics

Module 3 CASE

PROFESSIONS UNDER THE MICROSCOPE; WHISTLEBLOWING

Assignment Overview

This Case 3 focuses on how a large, well-respected financial institution can seriously put its reputation at stake and what happened to bring that about.

Begin by watching the following series of videos.

WatchMojo.com (2016). Wells Fargo scandal: 5 things you need to know! Retrieved from https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=Wells+Fargo+ethics+video&&view=detail&mid=0E639C8E646F0952B35C0E639C8E646F0952B35C&&FORM=VDRVRVStandard YouTube License.

Wells Fargo CEO John Stumpf at Banking Committee hearing, September 20, 2016. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJhkX74D10M. Standard YouTube license.

C-Span (2017). Sen. Warren to Wells Fargo CEO: “You should be fired.” Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyVr4qcn8EM Standard YouTube license.

Note: Mr. Sloan replaced Mr. Stumpf who retired October 12, 2016. Mr. Sloan retired March 28, 2019.

CBS News (2018). Wells Fargo whistleblower on fraudulent banking practices. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=309&v=mua-_cQOC5Q Standard YouTube license.

View the following on whistleblowing:

Pope, K. (2017). How whistle-blowers shape history. TEDxDePaul University. Retrieved from https://www.ted.com/talks/kelly_richmond_pope_how_whistle_blowers_shape_history

And, finally read the following follow up:

Flitter, E. and Cowley, S. (2019). Wells Fargo says its culture has changed. Some employees disagree. The New York Times. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2019/03/09/business/wells-fargo-sales-culture.html

These optional sources might also be useful to you:

Armstrong, R., and Noonan, L. (2019). Wells Fargo: repairing a damaged brand. FT.Com, Retrieved from ProQuest in the Trident Online Library.

Forbes (2014). 10 simple ways to improve your reputation. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/yec/2014/01/28/10-simple-ways-to-improve-your-reputation/#6cd6373e6b9f

Iraci, J. (2017). The complex process of managing reputation risk. The RMA Journal, 99(10), 40-43. Retrieved from ProQuest database in the Trident Online Library.

MarketingWorks (2014). 6 ways to rebuild reputation with PR after a crisis. Retrieved from https://marketingworks360.com/2014/03/marketing-tips/6-ways-to-rebuild-reputation-with-pr-after-a-crisis/

Case Assignment

Address the following in a 3- to 4-page essay demonstrating your critical-thinking skills. It should be written for an audience of business owners. As an ethics expert working for a national ethics association, you have been asked to address the following:

• Evaluate what Wells Fargo has done to repair the damage to their reputation. What should they still do?

• Should top leaders be responsible for the behaviors of its customer-facing employees? Why or why not.

• In your judgment, why is this Wells Fargo situation an “ethical dilemma”? Bring in a philosophy (or philosophies) that you have learned about in this Module.

This assignment should include third-person voice, in-text citations, and a reference list. It should be evident that you followed some of the basics of APA formatting. Write a well-integrated paper with a strong introduction and conclusion, and use a few section headings (e.g., do not simply follow a Q & A format).

Bring in subject matter expert viewpoints (authors or speakers) to validate and support your writing. Utilize at least 3 sources that are not included as background readings in this course and use ones that are new to you. These sources, for example, can be found by searching the Trident Online Library databases (such as Academic Search Complete, Business Source Complete, Skillsoft Books 24×7, and/or ProQuest Central).

General References Useful for Preparing Graduate-Level Papers:

For a list of general reference sources related to locating library sources, using APA formatting, applying critical-thinking skills, and so forth, see General References Useful for Preparing Graduate-Level Papers. It is not required that you read these sources page-by-page, but rather you refer to them for guidance as needed.

Assignment Expectations

Your submission will be evaluated using the following criteria from the Case grading rubric, located in the Case dropbox:

Assignment-driven criteria: Covers all key elements of the assignment in a substantive way.

Critical thinking: Conceptualizes the problem. Multiple information sources, expert opinion, and assumptions are analyzed, synthesized, and critically evaluated. Logically consistent conclusions are presented with appropriate rationale.

Business writing: Mastery in written communications and a skilled, knowledgeable, and error-free presentation to an appropriately specialized audience.

Effective use of information: Locates relevant and quality sources of information, using strong and compelling content to support ideas, convey understanding of the topic, and shape the whole work.

Citing sources: Mastery using in-text citations of sources, proper format for quotations, and correct format of full-source information in the reference list using APA style (bibliography).

Timeliness: Assignment submitted on time or collaborated with professor for an approved extension on due date.

ETH501 Business Ethics

Module 3 SLP

PROFESSIONS UNDER THE MICROSCOPE; WHISTLEBLOWING

Goal of this Session Long Project:

This assignment is the third of four SLPs where you will be building a bank of takeaways pertaining to ethical and/or unethical behaviors.

After reviewing this SLP scenario:

• Express your reactions

• Apply your own background/experiences

• State important takeaways

• Add other comments you would like to make

Your SLP submission should be 2 to 3 pages of text, well organized, well written, and 100% error free. You may use first-or third-person voice. Write in full sentences. Demonstrate your critical-thinking skills. No outside reference materials are required (unless stated*); however add applicable course material. Be creative (for example, add color and/or small graphics).

*Note: In SLP 2 we introduced the importance of library research. So, in SLP 3 also support your arguments with sources from the Trident Online Library. This is an expectation at the graduate level.

What Can Happen?

View what can happen to individual businesses, their owners (and their animals) when big business steps in and takes over:

NBC News (2018). The Last Days of an American Dairy Farm: “Hard to Believe It’s Over.” Retrieved from https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=u.s.+milk+industry+video&view=detail&mid=F3352CF9B9F8720D8700F3352CF9B9F8720D8700&FORM=VIRE.Standard YouTube license.

It is not only milk. It is chicken too. Read the following commentary:

Guebert. A. (March 21, 2019). Costco, Walmart want ag control. Farm and Dairy. Retrieved from https://www.farmanddairy.com/columns/costco-walmart-want-ag-control/542531.html

General References Useful for Preparing Graduate-Level Papers:

For a list of general reference sources related to locating library sources, using APA formatting, applying critical-thinking skills, and so forth, see General References Useful for Preparing Graduate-Level Assignments . It is not required that you read these sources page-by-page, but rather you refer to them for guidance.

SLP Assignment Expectations

This assignment will be assessed according to the following criteria on the SLP rubric:

Assignment-driven criteria: Demonstrates mastery covering all key elements of the assignment in a substantive way.

Critical thinking: Demonstrates mastery conceptualizing the problem. Multiple information sources, expert opinion, and assumptions are analyzed, synthesized, and critically evaluated. Logically consistent conclusions are presented with appropriate rationale.

Business Writing: Demonstrates mastery in written communications and a skilled, knowledgeable, and error-free presentation to an appropriately specialized audience.

Effective use of information: Demonstrates mastery in locating relevant and quality sources of information, using strong and compelling content to support ideas, convey understanding of the topic, and shape the whole work.

Citing Sources: Demonstrates mastery using in-text citations of sources, proper format for quotations, and correctly format full source information in the reference list using APA style (bibliography).

Timeliness: Assignment submitted on time or collaborated with professor for an approved extension on due date.

ETH501 Business Ethics

Module 4 CASE

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY; ETHICS AND THE FUTURE

Assignment Overview

Signature Assignment for Body of Knowledge—Introduced Level

Assignment Overview

Business Ethics are moral standards of conduct expected of a business by society. Social Responsibility involves the philosophies, policies, procedures, and actions that have the primary goal of enhancing society. Let us apply the concepts.

Case Assignment

Read Case: TOMS Shoes describes a unique business model combining for-profit and nonprofit philosophies into a corporate social responsibility model.

Naeini, A.; Dutt, A.; Angus, J. et.al. (June 7, 2015). A shoe for a shoe, and a smile. Business Today. Retrieved from https://www.businesstoday.in/magazine/lbs-case-study/toms-shoes-shoes-for-free-cause-marketing-strategy-case-study/story/219444.html.

Address the following in a 3- to 4-page academic essay that demonstrates your critical-thinking skills. It should be written for an audience of business owners. As an ethics expert working for a national ethics association, you have been asked to address the following:

• Research another organization that is also high on corporate social responsibility. Compare and contrast their CSR approach with the CSR approach of TOMS Shoes.

• What actions of organizations fall under the umbrella of “corporate social responsibility”? Give three examples of CSR activities beyond what you have learned from TOMS and the organization you discussed in this assignment.

• Is it expected that successful organizations also have a CSR component in its values? Discuss by giving two additional employer examples.

This assignment should include third-person voice, in-text citations, and a references list. It should be evident that you followed some of the basics of APA formatting. Write a well-integrated paper with a strong introduction and conclusion, and use a few section headings (e.g., do not simply follow a Q & A format).

Bring in subject matter viewpoints (authors or speakers) to validate and support your writing. Utilize at least 3 sources that are not included as background readings in this course and are new to you. These sources, for example, can be found from searching the Trident Online Library databases (such as Academic Search Complete, Business Source Complete, Skillsoft Books 24×7, and/or ProQuest Central).

Body of Knowledge Emphasis

The criterion in the grading rubric has been developed to measure student success in meeting the ETH501 Case 4 “introduced” expectations related body of knowledge. Assessment of any following body of knowledge skills at the “reinforced” and “emphasized” levels may be included in assignments in other courses that follow.

General References Useful for Preparing Graduate-Level Papers:

For a list of general reference sources related to locating library sources, using APA formatting, applying critical thinking skills, and so forth, see General References Useful for Preparing Graduate-Level Papers. It is not required that you read these sources page-by-page, but rather you refer to them for guidance.

Assignment Expectations

Your submission will be evaluated using the following criteria from the Case grading rubric, located in the Case drop box:

Assignment-driven criteria: Covers all key elements of the assignment in a substantive way (Body of Knowledge criterion).

Critical thinking: Conceptualizes the problem. Multiple information sources, expert opinion, and assumptions are analyzed, synthesized, and critically evaluated. Logically consistent conclusions are presented with appropriate rationale.

Business writing: Mastery in written communications and a skilled, knowledgeable, and error-free presentation to an appropriately specialized audience.

Effective use of information: Locates relevant and quality sources of information, using strong and compelling content to support ideas, convey understanding of the topic, and shape the whole work.

Citing sources: Mastery using in-text citations of sources, proper format for quotations, and correct format of full-source information in the reference list using APA style (bibliography).

Timeliness: Assignment submitted on time or collaborated with professor for an approved extension on due date.

ETH501 Business Ethics

Module 4 SLP

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY; ETHICS AND THE FUTURE

Business Ethics are moral standards of conduct expected of a business by society. Social Responsibility involves the philosophies, policies, procedures, and actions that have the primary goal of enhancing society. Let us apply the concepts.

SLP Assignment

Goal of this Session Long Project:

This assignment is the last of four SLPs where you will be building a bank of takeaways pertaining to ethical and/or unethical behaviors.

After reviewing this SLP scenario:

• Express your reactions

• Apply your own background/experiences

• State important takeaways

• Add other comments you would like to make

Your SLP submission should be 2 to 3 pages of text, well organized, well written, and 100% error free. You may use first-or third-person voice. Write in full sentences. Demonstrate your critical-thinking skills. Be creative (for example, add color and/or small graphics).

*Note: In SLP 2 we introduced the importance of library research. So, in SLP 4 also support your arguments with sources from the Trident Online Library. This is an expectation at the graduate level.

Categorical Imperative—Part of Organizational Culture?

In the fall of 2016, Samsung Electronics experienced a massive public relations disaster when its Galaxy Note 7 smartphones started exploding due to faulty batteries and casings. Initially, the company denied there were any technical problems. Then, when it became obvious the exploding phones posed a safety and health threat when they were banned from airplanes, Samsung accused its suppliers of creating the problem. In reality, the rush to beat Apple’s iPhone 7 release date was the most likely reason corners were cut in production. Samsung finally owned up to the problem, recalled more than two million phones worldwide, and replaced them with new, improved Galaxy Note 7s. The company’s response and its replacement of the phones went a long way toward defusing the disaster and even boosting the company’s share price. Whether management knew it, its response was Kantian. Samsung focused on the end (i.e., customer safety and satisfaction) with the motive of doing the ethically responsible thing.

Source: Byars and Stanberry (2018), page 54 CC BY

General References Useful for Preparing Graduate-Level Papers:

For a list of general reference sources related to locating library sources, using APA formatting, applying critical-thinking skills, and so forth, see General References Useful for Preparing Graduate-Level Papers. It is not required that you read these sources page-by-page, but rather you refer to them for guidance.

SLP Assignment Expectations

This assignment will be assessed according to the following criteria on the SLP rubric:

Assignment-driven criteria: Demonstrates mastery covering all key elements of the assignment in a substantive way.

Critical thinking: Demonstrates mastery conceptualizing the problem. Multiple information sources, expert opinion, and assumptions are analyzed, synthesized, and critically evaluated. Logically consistent conclusions are presented with appropriate rationale.

Business Writing: Demonstrates mastery in written communications and a skilled, knowledgeable, and error-free presentation to an appropriately specialized audience.

Effective use of information: Demonstrates mastery in locating relevant and quality sources of information, using strong and compelling content to support ideas, convey understanding of the topic, and shape the whole work.

Citing Sources: Demonstrates mastery using in-text citations of sources, proper format for quotations, and correctly format full source information in the reference list using APA style (bibliography).

Timeliness: Assignment submitted on time or collaborated with professor for an approved extension on due date.