1. Knowing that its managers are willing to trade off some economic efficiency to operate according to their collective view of what is "ethical," would you buy shares of stock in this company? Why, or why not?
2. Managers at Levi Strauss believe that they run an ethical company, but some critics view their liberal employment and benefits policies as immoral. These critics object to the policies because they're inconsistent with the critics' religious views. Analyze the pros and cons of an organizational culture that includes socially liberal employment policies that are viewed by some members of society (including potential employees and potential customers) as immoral.
3. Suppose you are looking for a new job. You have two offers for similar positions: one at Nike and one at Levi Strauss. Both organizations have indicated that they would like you to work for a year in one of their offshore production plants somewhere in Southeast Asia. The two salary offers are very similar, and in both companies you would be eligible for an annual bonus. The bonus would be based largely on the productivity of the production plant where you will be located. Which offer would you accept? Explain why.
4. In the mid-1990s, sales began declining and the company had to move many operations abroad, dramatically reducing its U.S. workforce. Levis Strauss is now a global company with three major divisions around the world (visit levistrauss.com). Do you think what has happened at Levis Strauss is likely to happen with more U.S. companies? What are the implications of this for you?