Discussion Thread 1: The Coca-Cola Company

In the book Business Ethics: A Stakeholder Approach by Thomas Donaldson and Patricia Werhane, the authors discuss the ethical values of The Coca-Cola Company. They argue that Coca-Cola has a responsibility to its stakeholders, including its employees, customers, suppliers, and the environment.

The authors point to Coca-Cola’s code of ethics, which states that the company is committed to “operating in an ethical and sustainable manner.” The code of ethics includes a number of specific commitments, such as:

• Treating employees with respect and dignity
• Providing safe and healthy working conditions
• Protecting the environment
• Avoiding corruption

The authors argue that Coca-Cola has a good record of upholding its ethical commitments. However, they also acknowledge that the company has been criticized for its labor practices in some countries. For example, Coca-Cola has been accused of using child labor in its bottling plants in India.

In light of Scripture, we can say that Coca-Cola has a responsibility to act ethically in all of its dealings. The Bible teaches us that we should love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:39). This means that we should treat all people with respect and dignity, regardless of their social status or economic circumstances. We should also be mindful of the impact that our actions have on the environment.

Discussion Thread 2: The Nike Corporation

The Nike Corporation is another company that has been criticized for its ethical practices. In the book The Ethics of Business by Norman Bowie, the author discusses the controversy surrounding Nike’s labor practices in Asia.

Bowie argues that Nike has a responsibility to ensure that its suppliers provide safe and fair working conditions for their employees. He also argues that Nike has a responsibility to be transparent about its supply chain so that consumers can make informed choices about the products they buy.

Nike has taken some steps to improve its labor practices. For example, the company has established a code of conduct for its suppliers and has implemented a monitoring system to ensure that the code is being followed. However, Nike has continued to be criticized for its labor practices.

In light of Scripture, we can say that Nike has a responsibility to act ethically in all of its dealings. The Bible teaches us that we should care for the poor and vulnerable (James 1:27). This means that we should ensure that our employees are treated fairly and that they are not exploited.

Discussion Thread 3: The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is a non-profit organization that provides social services to people in need. In the book Business Ethics: A Critical Approach by Max Wade, the author discusses the ethical values of The Salvation Army.

Wade argues that The Salvation Army is committed to a number of ethical values, including:

• Compassion
• Integrity
• Respect
• Accountability
• Transparency

The Salvation Army has a long history of providing assistance to people in need. The organization operates shelters for the homeless, food banks, and clothing banks. It also provides disaster relief and other social services.

In light of Scripture, we can say that The Salvation Army is an example of an organization that is living out its faith. The Bible teaches us to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:39). This means that we should help those who are in need.

These are just a few examples of the ethical values displayed in various organizations. It is important for organizations to be aware of their ethical responsibilities and to take steps to uphold those responsibilities. By acting ethically, organizations can build trust and credibility with their stakeholders and make a positive impact on the world.