Ethics Mods

Question 1

Benefits of ethics or importance of business ethics

Did attention to business ethics has substantially improved society ?

Answer 1

Yes

Question 2

Benefits of ethics or importance of business ethics

During turbulant times. what helps in maintaining a moral course of action ?

Answer 2

ethics programs helps in directing out actions

Question 3

business ethics benefits

Do ethical programs helps in cultivating teamwork and productivity ?

Answer 3

yes

Question 4

business ethics benefits

What can increase employee growth and meaning

Answer 4

ethics programs

Question 5

business ethics benefits

What makes sure that policies are legal ?

Answer 5

ethics program works as an insurance policy they help ensure that policies are legal

Question 6

business ethics benefits

What makes sure that policies are legal ?

Answer 6

ethics program works as an insurance policy they help ensure that policies are legal

Question 7

business ethics benefits

Do ethics programs promote a strong public image ?

Answer 7

Yes

Question 8

business ethics benefits

What is the most important reason for implementing ethics program ?

Answer 8

formal attention to ethics in the workplace is the right thing to do

Question 9

Ethics definition ?

Answer 9

The word ‘ethics’ is derived from the greek work ‘ethos’ which means customs, usages or habits. Thus, ethics is the philosophical study of morality

it can be defined as the systematic study of human actions from the point of view of thier rightfullness or wrongfullness as means for the achievement of the ultimate happiness

Paulsen defines ethics as a science of customs or morals

ethics is the study of what is good or right in conduct

Question 10

What is moral philosophy ?

Answer 10

Moral philosophy is the rational study of the meaning and justification of moral claims. A moral claim evaluates the rightness or wrongness of an action or a person’s character.

for eg= ‘lying is wrong’ claims the act of lying is wrong, while ‘one shouldn’t be lazy’ claims a character trait(i,e laziness) is wrong

Question 11

What is moral judgement ?

Answer 11

A judgement of right and wrong, good and bad is commanly termed as moral judgement. it is judgement of an individual which he passes to estimate the rightness or wrongness of his action

Question 12

List four theories on ethics

Answer 12

1- Consequential theory
2- Utilitarian theory
3- Right theory
4- Casuist theory

Question 13

What is consequential theory ?

Answer 13

The rightness/wrongness of an action is determined by its consequences.

consequences of one’s conduct are the ultimate basis for any judgement about the rightness or wrongness of that conduct

Question 14

What is utilitarian theory ?

Answer 14

it is based on the result of actions and not on intentions or means. —> it beleives on the fact if end is good the means are good—> it assums greatest good is for greatest numbers.

Question 15

What is Right theory of ethics ?

Answer 15

An ethical theory based on the rights given to a person. It judges an action on the basis of right of a person. It is based on the concept of natural and conventional rights and concept of positive and negative rights.

The rights established by a society are protected and given the highest priority

The term right can be defined as “a justified claim that individuals and groups can make upon other individuals or upon society.” Rights-based ethics means that ethical behavior must uphold the rights of people, such as civil rights within a democracy. Rights can be legal in nature, or they can pertain to morality or human rights.

The right to life
The right to liberty
The right to pursue happiness
The right to a jury trial
The right to a lawyer
The right to freely practice a religion of choice
The right to express ideas or opinions with freedom as an individual
The right to come together and meet in order to achieve goals
The right to be informed of what law has been broken if arrested
The right to call witnesses to speak on one’s behalf if accused of a crime
The right of a person to be treated with respect and dignity
The right to freely live and travel within the country
The right to work
The right to marry

Question 16

What is casuist theory ?

Answer 16

The term casuisty is derived from casus. Latin for ‘case’ and refers to study of individual ‘cases of conscience’

The casusistic method is an much larger enterprise than just a description of cases of conscience and the process of moral reasoning

it does not focus on rules and theories but rather on practical decisions- making in particular cases based on precedent. So first the particular features of a case would be identified and then a comparisonn would be made with other similar cases and prior experinces attempting to determine not only the similarities but also the differences

casuistry, in ethics, a case-based method of reasoning. It is particularly employed in field-specific branches of professional ethics such as business ethics and bioethics. Casuistry typically uses general principles in reasoning analogically from clear-cut cases, called paradigms, to vexing cases. Similar cases are treated similarly. In this way, casuistry resembles legal reasoning. Casuistry may also use authoritative writings relevant to a particular case.

Practitioners in various fields value casuistry as an orderly yet flexible way to think about real-life ethical problems. Casuistry can be particularly useful when values or rules conflict. For example, what should be done when a business executive’s duty to meet a client’s expectations collides with a professional duty to protect the public? Casuistry also helps clarify cases in which novel or complex circumstances make the application of rules unclear. Should e-mail receive the same privacy protection as regular mail? If someone develops an idea while working for one employer, is it ethical to use that idea to help a subsequent employer? Casuistry seeks both to illuminate the meaning and moral significance of the details in such cases and to discern workable solutions.

Question 17

Which theory judges the actions on case to case basis ?

Answer 17

casusist theory

Question 18

Definition of freedom ?

Answer 18

The various meanings of the term freedom center around threee major themes which are

The first is the possiblity of the subject to act as man wills to satisfy his tendencies, aspirations etc. freedom of actions as opposed to constraints, servitude etc. civil and political liberites.

The second is the power of self determination without any necessitation in willing. if only from the pressure of the nature slightly distinct from the ego(freedom of willing, freewill as opposed to necessity)

the third is the fulfillment of reasoning subject by the domination of reason, of superior motivations over feeling and over inferior motivations(rational freedom)

Question 19

What are the two types of freedom ?

Answer 19

1- exercise freedom

2- specification freedom

Question 20

What is exercise freedom ?

Answer 20

Question 21

What is specification freedom ?

Answer 21

Question 22

What are some kinds or forms of freedom ?

Answer 22

1- physical freedom 
2- Moral freedom 
3- Pychological freedom 
4- Political freedom 
5- Social freedom

Question 23

What is ethical decision making ?

Answer 23

Ethical decisions inspire trust and with it fairness, responsibility and care for others. The ethical decision making process recognizes these conditions and requires reviewing all available options, eliminating unethical views and choosing the best ethical alternative.

Good decisions are both effective and ethical. In professional relationships, good decisions build respect, trust, and are generally consistent with good citizenship. Effective decisions are effective when they achieve what they were made for. A choice that produces unintended results is ineffective and therefore not good.

The key to making good decisions is to think about the different choices that lie ahead in order to achieve the objectives. For that reason, it is also very important to understand the difference between short-term vs. medium to long term objectives.

Making ethical decisions requires a certain sensitivity to ethical issues and a method of examining all the considerations associated with a decision. Having a method or structure for making ethical decisions is therefore essential. After this process has been performed a few times, the method is trusted and it is easier to walk through the steps.

Question 24

Write the names of some Framework for ethical decision making

Answer 24

The Utilitarian Approach
The Right Approach
The Fairness or Justice Approach
The Common Good Approach
The Virtue Approach

Question 25

What is The Utilitarian Approach ?

Answer 25

This approach dictates that the action that is the most ethical is the action that produces the most good and causes the least harm. In other words, the decision that strikes the greatest balance between good and evil.

In a business environment, it is therefore the decision that yields the most benefits and causes the least damage to customers, employees, shareholders, the environment, etc.

Question 26

What is the The Right Approach ?

Answer 26

The right approach suggests that the most ethical decision is the one that best protects and respects the moral rights of all concerned. This approach argues that people have a dignity based on human nature or their ability to freely choose what they want to do with their lives.

Based on that dignity, they have the right to be treated equally by others and not just as a means to an(other) end.

Question 27

What is The Fairness or Justice Approach ?

Answer 27

All equals should be treated equally. The Greek philosopher Aristotle and others contributed to that idea. Today, this idea is used to indicate that ethical decisions treat everyone equally. If not equal, this must be based on a standard that is explainable.

People are paid more for their hard work when they contribute more to the organization. That is fair. But many wonder whether the salaries of CEOs, some 100 times higher than others, are fair. Is this standard defensible?

Question 28

What is The Common Good Approach ?

Answer 28

The Greek philosophers also contributed to the idea that living in a community is a good thing. People’s actions and actions must contribute to this. This approach suggests that relationships within society are the basis of ethical reasoning and acting. Respect and compassion for all others, especially the vulnerable, are prerequisites for maintaining an ethical way of life.

Question 29

What is The Virtue Approach ?

Answer 29

An ancient approach to ethics is the belief that acting ethically must be in accordance with certain virtues that ensure the development of humanity in general. Virtues are tendencies and habits that enable man to act with the highest potential of human character.

Question 30

What is the Ethical decision-making process and roadmap ?

Answer 30

Below is a summary of the roadmap for the ethical decision-making process.

1. Gather the facts
   Don’t jump to conclusions until the facts are on the table. Ask yourself questions about the issue at hand, such as the 5 whys method. Facts are not always easy to find, especially in situations where ethics plays an important part. Some facts are not available or clearly demonstrable. Also indicate which assumptions are made.
2. Define the ethical issue
   Before solutions or new plans can be considered, the ethical issue is clearly defined. If there are multiple ethical focal points, only the most important should be addressed first.
3. Identify the stakeholders
   Identify all stakeholders. Who are those primary stakeholders? And who are the secondary stakeholders? Why are they interested in this issue?
4. Identify the effects and consequences
   Think about the possible positive and negative consequences associated with the decision. What is the magnitude of these consequences? And what is the probability that these consequences will actually occur? Distinguish between short-term and long-term consequences.
5. Consider integrity and character
   Consider what the community thinks would be a good decision in this context. How would you like it if the national newspaper wrote about your decision? What is public opinion? How does your character and personality influence the decision to be made?
6. Get creative with potential actions
   Are there other choices or alternatives that have not yet been considered? Try to come up with additional solutions or choices if a small number is considered.
7. Decide on the right ethical action
   Consider the options based on each option’s consequences, duties, and character aspects. Which arguments are most suitable to justify the choice?

Question 31

Difficulties in Ethical Decision Making

Answer 31

An organization is an amalgamation of various individuals and there is a conflict of interest at the personal level between these members, each one is concerned about his benefits and neutral or opposing to the benefits or good of others. This conflict of interest leads to situations that are morally challenging to the manager who wants to be moral and righteous to his own conscience and serve the interests of the organization. Here the dilemma arises on deciding upon the course of action.

In the second case a conflict arises when there is a distinction to be made about facts and values. This implies a situation where a manager confronts ‘what is’ and weighs the same against ‘what ought to be’. For example an organization may spend lots of resources upon developing, researching or upgrading a certain product and service, which gets reflected in the final price of the latter. This increase in price may be looked upon as exploitative by the end users!

Yet another difficulty arises in cases when there is a fine line dividing the good from the bad or the evil and in situations when there is a difference of opinion on what is morally permissible and what is not. Undoubtedly, in our society the good and the evil exist side by side. Example in case, Nestle infant formula lead to many deaths in Kenya because the formula was prepared in contaminated water. The same formula proved life saving in other countries. The challenge lies in minimizing the evil and trying to arrive upon a consensus.

In an era of uncertainty, it is almost impossible to predict the outcomes of decision making. One of the principles of ethical decision making assumes that the outcome of a decision is known and that the decision that results in greatest good for greater number of people is the best. Practically, anticipating the exact outcome of a course of action is impossible. This uncertainty is at the root of all difficulties in ethical decision making.

Question 32

What are some employee rights ?

Answer 32

An employee is, at the very least, entitled to the following rights at his workplace −

No discrimination at work, especially on the basis of gender, nationality, religion, medical condition, and political affiliation.

Healthy work-life balance, which means no long hours at work. Employees can also report if their employer makes unnecessary delays in delegating work.

Protection of job for people with disabilities and medical conditions.

Complete protection against sexual harassment of any kind and immunity from being forced to exchange favors for benefits.

Freedom to discuss the terms and conditions of the employment with other employees and negotiating wages to suit lifestyle as per changing times.

Right to ask for safe working conditions and reservation to answering questions on age, religion, nationality, and medical condition.

Demanding certain changes and modifications regarding the working conditions to accommodate situations that might crop up due to their prevailing medical conditions.

Right to form or participate a union that aims to improve the wages, lifestyle, working environment, and emphasizes on employee rights at the workplaces.

Question 32

What are some employee rights ?

Answer 32

An employee is, at the very least, entitled to the following rights at his workplace −

No discrimination at work, especially on the basis of gender, nationality, religion, medical condition, and political affiliation.

Healthy work-life balance, which means no long hours at work. Employees can also report if their employer makes unnecessary delays in delegating work.

Protection of job for people with disabilities and medical conditions.

Complete protection against sexual harassment of any kind and immunity from being forced to exchange favors for benefits.

Freedom to discuss the terms and conditions of the employment with other employees and negotiating wages to suit lifestyle as per changing times.

Right to ask for safe working conditions and reservation to answering questions on age, religion, nationality, and medical condition.

Demanding certain changes and modifications regarding the working conditions to accommodate situations that might crop up due to their prevailing medical conditions.

Right to form or participate a union that aims to improve the wages, lifestyle, working environment, and emphasizes on employee rights at the workplaces.

Question 33

What is conflict of interest ?

Answer 33

A conflict of interest arises when what is in a person’s best interest is not in the best interest of another person or organization to which that individual owes loyalty.

For example, an employee may simultaneously help himself but hurt his employer by taking a bribe to purchase inferior goods for his company’s use.

A conflict of interest can also exist when a person must answer to two different individuals or groups whose needs are at odds with each other. In this case, serving one individual or group will injure the other.

Question 34

Ethical principles

Answer 34

Ethical principles do not provide a straightforward guide that guarantees the making of an ethically correct decision, nor can they offer guidance about ranking when the principles appear to conflict with one another.
Instead, they point only to considerations that should be weighed when making decisions.

Autonomy. The duty to respect and promote individuals´ choices for themselves in achieving what they believe to be in their best interests. It becomes limited if it infringes on the best interests of others.
This duty also includes respect for confidentiality and privacy.
Privacy is related not only to information, but also to freedom from unnecessary or unwanted interference by others.
Respect for autonomy also underlies both informed consent and the drive toward using advanced treatment directives.

Beneficence. The duty always to act in the best interests of the patient, client, or resident; it must be distinguished from paternalism.

Non-maleficence. The duty to do not harm, and to protect the others from harm. Included in this duty is to maintain one´s professional competence.
In the palliative care setting, possible violations of this duty include:
- Insisting that patients confront the reality of their approach to death.
- Destroying hope.
- Providing unnecessary sedation.
- Failing to stop treatments when their burdens begin to exceed their benefits.

Distributive justice. All persons in society, being of equal moral worth, should be treated fairly.

Question 35

What is complaince based code of ethics ?

Answer 35

A compliance-based code of ethics is developed to ensure that the business and its employees comply with all laws and regulations in an appropriate manner. Three key elements include the prevention, detection and punishment of non-compliant behavior. For example, Jeremy’s compliance-based code may prohibit his employees from making material misrepresentations of facts when acting within the scope of their employment. Telephone sales are monitored to ensure that the sales force complies with the code and sales people are punished if they fail to do so.

Compliance-based ethical codes do have their critics. Compliance-based ethics do not foster independent thought and autonomy. They don’t empower employees to be ethical actors, but rather use strict rules of fear and punishment to enforce the code. Perhaps more importantly, compliance-based ethics does not necessarily encourage a general idea of ethical behavior.

Question 36

Value-Based Code of Ethics

Answer 36

A value-based code of ethics addresses a company’s core value system. It may outline standards of responsible conduct as they relate to the larger public good and the environment. Value-based ethical codes may require a greater degree of self-regulation than compliance-based codes.

Some codes of conduct contain language that addresses both compliance and values. For example, a grocery store chain might create a code of conduct that espouses the company’s commitment to health and safety regulations above financial gain. That grocery chain might also include a statement about refusing to contract with suppliers that feed hormones to livestock or raise animals in inhumane living conditions.

Question 37

What is proffesional obligation ?

Answer 37

Professional responsibility is the area of legal practice that encompasses the duties of attorneys to act in a professional manner, obey the law, avoid conflicts of interest, and put the interests of clients ahead of their own interests.

Question 38

What Does Regulatory Authority Mean?

Answer 38

A regulatory authority is an autonomous enforcing body created by the government to oversee and enforce regulations regarding occupational health and safety.

The role of the regulatory authority is to establish and strengthen safety standards and ensure consistent compliance with them.

Regulartory authorities are also known as regulatory bodies, regulatory agencies, or simply regulators.

The role of the regulatory body includes the imposition of requiremennts, conditions, restrictions, and standards for workplace activities, as well as enforcing and promoting compliance to them.

Although regulatory authorities cover a wide variety of professionals, not all professions are under the purview of a regulatory body. Certain professions remain self-regulated.

Responsibilities of Regulatory Authorities
Regulatory bodies are staffed by specialists who are versed in the complexities of regulations and how to best enforce them. Their responsibilities also include:

Drafting rules
Protecting consumers
Adjudicating dispiutes and controversies
Conducting hearings
Providing ordinary administrative services

Question 39

What Is Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)?

Answer 39

The term corporate social responsibility (CSR) refers to practices and policies undertaken by corporations intended to have a positive influence on the world. The key idea behind CSR is for corporations to pursue other pro-social objectives, in addition to maximizing profits. Examples of common CSR objectives include minimizing environmental externalities, promoting volunteerism among company employees, and donating to charity.