Ethical situations involving companies, groups, and individuals

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In this course, we have examined ethical situations involving companies, groups, and individuals. Although it is helpful to analyze the ethics of others, we must also consider our own ethics.

Reflect on the ethics of your own actions as a consumer. Then, you will reflect on corporate consumption and how this relates to a corporation’s code of ethics. Because historical factors influence codes of ethics and how they are applied, you will consider historical factors as you complete this journal reflection.

For the corporation example you select, you will need to cite its code of ethics or code of conduct. This can be found on most organizations’ official websites.

Directions
For this journal reflection, you will do the following:

Personal Consumption:
Summarize the ethics of your individual consumer choices from a personal perspective.
Identify the ethical principle(s) most relevant for you to consider when consuming resources. (These resources can include water, oil, energy, food, money, and any other natural or unnatural resources.)
Describe ethical dilemmas you have encountered when consuming resources.
What were the ethical dilemmas?
What did you do?
Explain how you think about the global impacts of any decisions you make regularly.
What decisions are they associated with?
How does thinking about (or not thinking about) the global impacts of your decisions affect your decision-making process?
Corporate Consumption:
Describe an example of a corporation making a choice related to sustainability.
What were the ethical implications of the decision?
How do the consumption practices of the corporation factor into its choices?
Explain how the corporation’s code of ethics has responded to the global environment over time, including in this example.
How has the code of ethics addressed the global environment in the past?

Sample Solution

Personal Consumption Ethics

Ethical Principles and Consumer Choices

As a consumer, I strive to make ethical choices that minimize harm to the environment and society. Key ethical principles that guide my consumption habits include:

  • Sustainability: Prioritizing products and services that are environmentally friendly and sustainable.
  • Fair Trade: Supporting fair labor practices and ethical sourcing.
  • Minimalism: Reducing consumption and avoiding unnecessary purchases.

Ethical Dilemmas

One ethical dilemma I often encounter is the trade-off between convenience and sustainability. For example, buying products packaged in single-use plastic is convenient but contributes to environmental pollution. In such cases, I try to choose reusable alternatives or products with minimal packaging.

Another dilemma arises when purchasing products from companies with questionable ethical practices. While it’s challenging to avoid all such companies, I research brands and choose those that align with my values.

Global Impact of Consumer Choices

My consumer choices, even on a small scale, can have a significant global impact. By reducing consumption, choosing sustainable products, and supporting ethical businesses, I can contribute to a more sustainable future. For instance, reducing meat consumption can lower greenhouse gas emissions and conserve water resources.

Corporate Consumption and Ethics

Example: Apple

Apple, as a major technology corporation, has a significant impact on global consumption. Its commitment to sustainability is evident in its efforts to reduce its environmental footprint and promote responsible sourcing.

Ethical Implications of Corporate Choices:

Apple’s decision to use rare earth minerals in its products raises ethical concerns, as these minerals are often mined in environmentally destructive ways and under poor labor conditions. However, the company has taken steps to source these minerals responsibly and reduce its reliance on them.

Corporate Code of Ethics and Global Environment

Apple’s Code of Conduct outlines its commitment to ethical business practices, including environmental responsibility. The company has made progress in reducing its carbon footprint, improving energy efficiency, and promoting recycling. However, there is still room for improvement, especially in areas such as supply chain transparency and worker rights.

Over time, Apple’s code of ethics has evolved to address emerging global challenges, such as climate change and human rights. The company has implemented various initiatives to minimize its environmental impact, including energy-efficient product design, renewable energy use, and recycling programs.

By understanding the ethical implications of corporate decisions and advocating for sustainable practices, consumers can play a role in shaping a more just and equitable world.

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