Question 1

"Follow the Golden Rule" is an example of a

Accepted Answer

"Follow the Golden Rule" is an ethical guideline because it suggests treating others as you would like to be treated, regardless of any legal or competitive considerations. It is a basic principle of ethics that emphasizes the importance of empathy, respect and fairness in our interactions with others.

Question 2

Sexual harassment is considered to be an ethical issue because

Accepted Answer

Sexual harassment is considered unethical because it fails to respect individuals' rights and dignity, violating ethical principles of fairness and respect.

Question 3

A survey of the extent of ethical problems revealed

Accepted Answer

The survey revealed that about 76 percent of employees have witnessed unethical and/or illegal actions. Therefore, option D is the best choice. Option A is incorrect because the survey revealed a high incidence of unethical behaviour. Option B is not mentioned in the survey. Option C is partially correct as only 55% of employees admitted to unethical and/or illegal actions, but the survey also revealed that 76% of employees witnessed such actions, so option C is incomplete.

Question 4

A key point in understanding ethical behaviour is that most people are motivated by self-interest

Accepted Answer

While self-interest may be a motivating factor, it is not the only factor in ethical behaviour. Many people are also motivated by a desire to do what is morally right, even if it may not necessarily benefit them directly.

Question 5

Ethical screening refers to

Accepted Answer

Ethical screening refers to evaluating a contemplated decision or action through an ethics test or framework. It is a process of analyzing the ethical implications of a decision or action to ensure that it meets ethical standards and principles. Therefore, option A is the most suitable answer. Options B, C and D are not relevant as they do not relate to the concept of ethical screening.

Question 6

The technical meaning of conflict of interest is that

Accepted Answer

Conflict of interest refers to situations where a person's judgement or objectivity is compromised due to personal interests, loyalties, biases, or relationships. It often creates a risk of harm to others or a breach of trust, and can undermine the integrity of decision-making processes.

Question 7

Assume that Holly Martin works for IBM as a bookkeeper and conducts an income tax preparation service out of her home. Which of the following titles on her business card and website would represent the biggest ethical violation?

Accepted Answer

Using "IBM" in the title could imply that Holly Martin is representing IBM or that IBM endorses her tax preparation service, which is not the case. This could mislead clients or potential clients and is a violation of ethics. The other options do not include any misleading or false information.

Question 8

The real issue in fairness refers to giving people equal rewards

Accepted Answer

The real issue in fairness refers to giving people equal rewards for accomplishing the same amount of work. This means that individuals who do the same amount of work should receive the same rewards, regardless of their personal attributes or characteristics.

Question 9

In a fair workplace, the most important factor for evaluating people is

Accepted Answer

In a fair workplace, the most important factor for evaluating people should be based on their qualifications and job performance. This ensures that individuals are judged based on their abilities and contributions to the company, rather than factors like personal relationships or length of employment. It is also important to consider ethics, but this should be a given expectation for all employees rather than a distinguishing factor for evaluation.

Question 10

Step one in the eight-step guide to ethical decision-making is to

Accepted Answer

Gathering the facts is the first step as it is important to have a clear understanding of the situation and the information related to it before identifying the ethical issues or affected parties. Without knowing the facts, it may be difficult to make ethical decisions.

Question 11

Which one of the following actions is the most likely to be regarded unethical work behaviour?

Accepted Answer

Sharing restricted records with a number of people violates confidentiality and trust, and can compromise the integrity of the organization. This is therefore considered the most unethical behavior out of the choices given. Using the office computer for private email is generally frowned upon but not necessarily unethical. Buying token gifts for suppliers could be considered a conflict of interest but is not necessarily unethical. Sharing public records with a number of people does not violate any ethical standards as such records are publicly available.

Question 12

A business person would be faced with a defining moment in terms of ethics when he or she

Accepted Answer

A defining moment in terms of ethics arises when a business person has to choose between two or more morally sound choices. This means that there is not necessarily a clear right or wrong answer, and the decision will be based on the individual's values and principles. Choices such as cheating on an expense account or reporting on a co-worker's unethical behavior may be clear cut and not as defining as a situation where a decision must be made based on one's own ethical beliefs. Recognition for outstanding ethical behavior is important, but it does not necessarily pose a defining moment.

Question 13

A company code of ethics usually specifies

Accepted Answer

A company code of ethics typically outlines the expected ethical standards of behavior for employees and provides guidance on how to handle ethical dilemmas in the workplace. It defines what is considered acceptable versus unacceptable behavior. It may also outline consequences for failing to follow these standards, but its main focus is on providing guidance on ethical conduct. It may not necessarily include information on legal ramifications or rewards for ethical behavior.

Question 14

Which one of the following is a likely positive consequence of ethical behaviour on the part of company management?

Accepted Answer

The ability to attract quality job applicants is a likely positive consequence of ethical behavior on the part of company management. When a company operates ethically, it creates a positive reputation and culture, which attracts quality job applicants who share the same values and beliefs. This, in turn, helps the company to build a strong team of dedicated and competent employees who contribute positively to the company's success.

Question 15

Human resources director Priscilla is dating Larry who works for another company. Priscilla faces a conflict of interest on the job when

Accepted Answer

Priscilla should recuse herself from any involvement in the hiring process for Larry's son to avoid a conflict of interest. She should make sure that another HR staff member handles the screening and selection process to ensure fairness and objectivity. A personal relationship with an applicant's family member could influence Priscilla's judgment and create a perception of bias. The other options do not pose significant conflicts of interest as long as Priscilla maintains a professional demeanor and avoids any special treatment or favoritism towards Larry or his company.

Question 16

It is considered ethical to divulge confidential information when

Accepted Answer

Divulging confidential information is generally not ethical, but it may be necessary in cases where the welfare of others is at risk. In such cases, it is important to carefully consider the potential consequences and to consult with appropriate parties such as legal or human resources before taking any action. In all other cases, it is best to err on the side of caution and respect the confidentiality of sensitive information.

Question 17

A character trait is an aspect of people

Accepted Answer

A character trait is a personality trait that relates to a person's moral and ethical behaviour. It is a stable and consistent aspect of an individual's personality that influences their behaviour in different situations. Character traits are not developed on the job, and they should not hinder acceptable ethical behaviour. Therefore, the best choice is B as it accurately describes what a character trait is.

Question 18

Restaurant manager Sue has a utilitarian predisposition, so she doesn't mind serving customers food that fell on the floor so long as

Accepted Answer

As a utilitarian, Sue prioritizes the overall happiness and well-being of the customers. As long as no one gets sick from the food, she sees no harm in serving it, which aligns with a utilitarian perspective. Choices A, C, and D are not relevant to Sue's utilitarian predisposition.

Question 19

An example of a well-developed corporate ethics program is the

Accepted Answer

The ethics hotline is an example of a well-developed corporate ethics program as it provides a confidential and anonymous channel for employees to report ethical violations or concerns, and ensures that they are properly addressed and resolved. This demonstrates that the company values ethics and encourages employees to act ethically without fear of retaliation. The other options may also be components of a corporate ethics program, but on their own, they do not constitute a well-developed program.

Question 20

With respect to ethics, moral intensity refers to how

Accepted Answer

Moral intensity refers to the extent to which an issue demands the application of ethical principles, often influenced by the potential impact on others.

Quiz 14: Enhancing Ethical Behaviour