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Ethical Conundrum

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1. Exhibit 1 explains the decision tree. It is used in globally to implement ethical and social duties. The companies are earning large profits in third world country markets. Third world countries are profiting from tobacco sales. 75% of the price of cigarettes in taxes are in Brazil. Because living in third world countries are not ideal, Tobacco companies made sure their products will lead them to a gateway out of their troubles. This is influenced by western culture as we see many celebrities smoking cigarettes. Finally, when considering the individual there are two perspectives to consider, the individual form his/her perspective and the individual from our (western) perspective. The individual viewed from their own perspective most certainly …show more content…

In regards to this issue, one must be very careful not to slide down its slippery slope. The dilemmas confronting the tobacco companies are not unlike the ethical dilemmas companies face in other industries. Even though they are "legal" products, some other considerations maybe be prudent. Some would argue that if it's not banned by government, its fair game. A rational point of view, however applying that logic to any number of socially unacceptable practices could be deemed appropriate, from the segregation laws through the '60s to the Diet pills marketing of today. Marlboro and Budweiser have done as much to damage American health as have Smith & Wesson or heart disease. That being said, the best way for the marketer to confront the ethical conundrum is to address the specific case. Divulge any and all information pertaining to any potentially harmful risk associated with using a particular product, in this case cigarettes. Being totally honest and forthright is the key in this situation. From the government’s point of view, funding research efforts with at least a portion of the profits associated with the sale of cigarettes would be a great start. The price of ethical behavior can be quite costly. In this instance, if the consumers in third world countries were made aware and had a firm understand of the harmful effects of smoking I believe there would be less smokers. That would means less sales, less money for all

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