Evelyn has worked for the Boston branch of Clarity Systems for the past ten years. She is being transferred to head the Madrid office of her company. Since the transfer was a hurried one, there was no time to train Evelyn in the specifics of doing business in Spanish culture. As soon as she arrived in Madrid, Evelyn had to conduct negotiations for the renewal of several supplier contracts. One of the suppliers gave her an expensive watch, saying that it was a custom of the country to give business associates gifts. Evelyn is unsure whether she should accept the gift as it seems like a bribe. Which of the following ethical guidelines will help Evelyn determine whether or not to accept the gift?
A) respecting core human rights
B) respecting local traditions
C) determining right from wrong by examining context
D) using ethnocentrism
E) increasing power distance

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ethical guideline of determining right from wrong by examining context will help Evelyn in this situation. She is in a new cultural context where she is unsure of the norms and traditions regarding gift-giving. By examining the context and understanding whether accepting the gift could be considered a form of bribery or not, she can make an ethical decision about whether to accept it or not. Respecting core human rights and increasing power distance are not relevant to this specific situation, while using ethnocentrism could lead to misunderstandings and inappropriate behavior. Respecting local traditions is important, but it should not override ethical considerations.

Evelyn Has Worked for the Boston Branch of Clarity Systems