"Michael is a recent graduate of a well-known university in New York. He obtained his bachelor's degree in business. Shortly following his graduation, Michael accepted a job offer from an office supply manufacturer and distributor in the sales department. On his first trip to visit a big client, his branch manager, Jen, travels with him. During this meeting with the client, Jen offers the client a $5,000 discount in order to secure a deal. This confuses and upsets Michael, who knows the company policy only allows discounts in very specific circumstances, which are not met by the current order. Jen explains that sometimes it is necessary to cut corners in order to secure big deals and there are ways around the rule. Jen further claims that company executives will often dismiss these discounts in order to make the sale."

 

1) a. Explain why Michael should or should not report a claim for violating company policy.

 b. Discuss how this situation may or may not compromise Michael's integrity? 

 

2) Considering ethical principles, is there ever an appropriate time to disobey superiors in the workplace? If so, is this one of them? Explain. If not, explain why not. 

 

3) a. Describe Jen's sales philosophy. 

b. Do you believe the way she conducts business is ethical and appropriate? Explain.

 

 Note: it MUST support the responses using one of the ethical principles (Kant, Utilitarian, Social Responsibility, Moral Agency, Personal Integrity in the Workplace etc.) Again, the initial response must be no less than three paragraphs and cite sources appropriately