Ethical Practices

Question 1

Deontology

Answer 1

Ethical theory that focuses on the inherent nature of actions rather than their consequences. It’s about following certain moral rules or principles and doing what is considered inherently right, regardless of the outcomes.

Question 2

Utilitarianism

Answer 2

Ethical theory that says the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or pleasure and minimizes pain or suffering. It’s like trying to make the most people happy or satisfied.

Question 3

Virtue Ethics

Answer 3

The idea is that by embodying virtuous characteristics, people will naturally make morally good decisions. It’s like aiming to be a good person by building positive qualities in yourself.

Question 4

How to navigate a conflict of interest

Answer 4

1. Disclosure - If you find yourself in a situation where a conflict of interest may arise, acknowledge it and disclose it to your supervisor or HR manager. Transparent communication is crucial in such situations.
2. Recusal - If the conflict of interest involves a decision-making process where you could be biased, consider recusing yourself from that particular decision. This may involve delegating responsibilities to another HR professional
3. Third-party Mediation - To ensure a fair and impartial result, consider bringing in a neutral third-party like another HR professional to listen in.
4. Policy Enforcement - Keep a record of your decisions and the rationale behind them. This documentation can serve as evidence that you handled the conflict of interest with integrity and in accordance with company policies.

Question 5

WARN Act

Answer 5

Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, is a United States federal law designed to protect workers and their families by requiring employers to provide advance notice of mass layoffs or plant closures. Here are the key points:

• 60-day notice to employers with 100 or more FT employees.

Question 6

Cultural Relativism

Answer 6

Ethical concept that suggests that all beliefs, values, and practices should be understood and evaluated within the cultural context in which they occur.

Context - Emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting cultural differences without imposing one’s own values on others.

Question 7

Cultural Relativism Challenges

Answer 7

• Labor Practices - Cultural differences can lead to variations in expectations regarding employee treatment and management styles.
• Diversity & Inclusion - Balancing respect for cultural diversity with the establishment of universal diversity and inclusion policies can be challenging. HR professionals must find a middle ground that promotes inclusivity.
• Local laws vs. Global Policies - HR professionals need to be well-versed in the cultural and legal landscape of each location to ensure compliance without compromising ethical standards.

Question 8

Zero-hour Contracts

Answer 8

Employment agreements in which the employer is not obligated to provide the employee with a minimum number of working hours. These contracts are known for their flexibility but have also been criticized for potential exploitation and lack of employment security.

Question 9

PLUS Model

Answer 9

Framework for ethical decision making.

1. P - Policies
2. L - Legal
3. U - Universal
4. S - Self

Question 10

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

Answer 10

Committing to a higher standard of operation. Considering the impact of HR policies and practices on employees, the community, and society at large.

1. Talent acquisition
2. Training & development
3. Employee Engagement

Question 11

Ethical Pitfalls

Answer 11

• Unconscious bias - automatic, unintentional judgments or attitudes that individuals form about others based on characteristics such as race, gender, age, ethnicity, or other social and cultural factors.
• Inadequate feedback - Lack of development and unfair performance appraisals, negative impact on trust and morale.
• Conflict of interest - Favoritism and unfair treatment.

Question 12

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

Answer 12

A comprehensive data protection and privacy regulation enacted by the European Union (EU). Grants individuals various rights over their data, such as the right to access, rectify, erase, and object to processing.

Question 13

Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA)

Answer 13

The ADEA prohibits various discriminatory practices, including age-based harassment, mandatory retirement in most situations, and retaliation. Individuals over 40 are protected.