Question

1. A complaint of sexual harassment by a part-time worker in a hardware business was upheld when the Tribunal found that the employer had failed to take sufficient action in relation to the employee's report of inappropriate behaviour. The alleged sexual harassment included kissing, touching her breasts and leg, persistent requests to have a drink outside work hours despite an ongoing refusal, asking for cuddles, telephoning her at home and making repeated unsolicited sexual remarks. Based on any four ethical theories, explain how these acts constitute unethical behaviours at the workplace.
2. The process of negotiation between buyer and supplier inevitably raises some ethical tensions, given that the situation is often characterized as one of the two combatants coming together to do battle. Explain any five popular negotiating tactics, all of which can be challenged on ethical grounds.

3. If a firm’s business activities do not result in profit maximization, whilst alternatives exist, then such activities amount to irresponsible actions. Discuss any five sets of economic responsibilities firms must embrace to ensure the protection and enhancement of the business.

Answer 1

Explanation:

1. Here's examples of ethical theories:

Utilitarianism: this theory focuses on actions in this case–in the workplace, that provide the greatest satisfaction for majority. In this case the sexual harassment practices does not benefit the greater number of employees in the workplace.

Deontological theory: even though this theory believes that what people do is what's important not the consequences of their actions, it stresses doing the right thing because it's the right thing to do.

So the employees actions constitute a violation of this theory–by going against workplace ethics.

The other two theories are the Care hypothesis and Moral hypothesis.

2. The negotiation technique includes;

1. Reciprocity: this involves honestly asking oneself; Would I want others to treat me or someone close to me this way?

2. Publicity: Think about how others would view your actions publicly. Would they be comfortable?

3. Trusted friend:

Would I be comfortable telling my best friend, spouse, or children what I am doing?

4. Principle of Universality:

A deliberate self examination about you advise anyone else in same situation to act in this same way as you want to do?

5. Legacy: think about the future; Does this action reflect how I want to be known and remembered?