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Willia Virtue Based Ethical Theory

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Introduction An ethical dilemma exists when a moral decision must be made between two or more possible scenarios. It is defined as a situation requiring a person to take action or not to take action based on moral grounds (Braunack-Mayer, 2001). In business, such dilemmas occur frequently as employees, leaders, and organizations, are faced with complex problems that may impact multiple stakeholders in various ways that are not always equal or equitable. A sound ethical decision begins with a set of core values that define the person facing the situation (UC San Diego, 2014). The following case study identifies an ethical dilemma, compares the use of consequentialist theory and virtue based theory to determine the best decision to make, and analyzes the results. Ethical Dilemma The head of Potter Candy Corporation, William Potter, is considering placing his eldest son, Henry as the CEO of the organization. …show more content…

Since the offensive behavior occurred, there have been no reports of sexual harassment by Henry. On the contrary, Henry has performed well over the last couple of years. He has demonstrated professional development and effective job performance as evidenced by the success of the Miami branch. There are four basic attributes of virtue based ethical theory that can be applied; generally accepted character values, nurturing of these values by the community, ability to utilize sound moral judgement, and exhibition of developed moral character over time (Dobson, 2007). Henry’s behavior towards Jill was completely inappropriate and devoid of a common standard of moral decency. However, his time in Miami has proven to be successful. Jill is not aware of any further harassment of employees. The environment Henry worked in and created produced increased productivity for the

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