Lucas is the general manager of an organization that manufactures school uniforms. Numerous competing firms have outsourced their production to sweatshops in developing countries where workers are paid less than minimum wages. However, Lucas refuses to do this, and his firm consequentially starts to lose market share. In this instance, which of the following schools of ethical thought is guiding Lucas's actions?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Lucas's refusal to outsource production to sweatshops is likely guided by a deontological approach to ethics, which is a duty-based perspective that emphasizes the inherent rights and wrongs of actions regardless of their consequences. Lucas may believe that it is morally wrong to exploit workers by paying them less than minimum wages, and that upholding the principles of fairness and justice is more important than maximizing profits or market share. This differs from a utilitarian approach, which prioritizes the greatest good for the greatest number of people and may justify outsourcing if it results in lower prices and increased access to school uniforms for more students. A humanist approach emphasizes the intrinsic value and dignity of human beings and may also support Lucas's decision, but it is not necessarily exclusive to a duty-based perspective. A consequentialist approach evaluates actions based on their outcomes, which is not the primary consideration for Lucas in this scenario.

Lucas Is the General Manager of an Organization That Manufactures