In a small town, a pharmaceutical company is the major employer, providing jobs to a
significant portion of the population. The company has developed a new drug that could potentially save lives, but during the testing phase, some unexpected side effects have emerged. The company is under pressure to release the drug quickly to start generating profits, but doing so may endanger the lives of those who take it.
Values and Ethics Observations:
1. Integrity: Employees within the pharmaceutical company face a moral dilemma
between prioritizing the company's financial interests and the potential harm to consumers. Upholding integrity means being honest about the risks associated with the drug. 2. Community Welfare: The townspeople, including the employees' families, are directly impacted by the company's decision. Balancing the welfare of the community against financial interests requires careful ethical consideration. 3. Responsibility: The company has a responsibility to its employees, shareholders, and the general public. Deciding whether to prioritize short-term gains or long-term safety reflects the organization's commitment to social responsibility.
Scenario 2: The Environmental Crisis
A multinational corporation is considering establishing a manufacturing plant in a
developing country where environmental regulations are lax. The plant would provide jobs to a struggling local economy but has the potential to cause significant environmental harm due to the lack of strict regulations.
Values and Ethics Observations:
1. Environmental Stewardship: The corporation faces a dilemma between
pursuing economic benefits and being environmentally responsible. Observing values related to environmental stewardship involves considering the long-term impact of the plant on the local ecosystem. 2. Social Justice: The corporation must weigh the immediate economic benefits for the local community against the potential harm to the environment. Balancing social justice involves ensuring that economic development does not disproportionately harm vulnerable populations. 3. Transparency: The corporation must decide whether to be transparent about the potential environmental impact of the plant. Upholding transparency values involves providing accurate information to the local community and other stakeholders.