Sample Paper on Business Ethics
It is wrong for businesses to sell less safe products even on account of current technology. This is because, even if there’s a justification of cost-benefit reasoning, there are unforeseen future costs borne by the act which can be hard to control hence resulting in jeopardized businesses and consumers as well (Hartman, DesJardins & MacDonald, 2014). It is also beneficial to prioritize safety in any project as it ensures production of quality products and satisfies safety standards set by acting institutions.
Businesses may claim that certain safety features are costly and unaffordable but the purpose of all inventions is to fill a gap in the market with quality products, and it’s upon them to find the acceptable standard for reducing costs. It is not right for any company to sell vehicles that substitute safety for higher profit margins. The motor industry has guidelines that measure safety, and it is wrong for any company to disobey them. Companies rush to make billion dollars and later on, the costly consequences make them recall the mistake of not making the product safe in the beginning. In the case of the Ford Motor Company, selling Pinto even with unsafe fuels gas tank resulted in numerous fires and explosions leading to deaths and followed suits filed against. In this regard, they were unable to adopt the NHTSA new standard of 1976.Motor companies should be actively involved in creating new inventions other than impulse reaction of competition. They should also ensure that they manufacture vehicles that are in line with the NHTSA safety standards.
It is a good thing for automakers to be competitive and innovative at the same time but when their products threaten the safety of people, then they should consider fixing the problem beforehand. Products will not only guarantee them smooth operations within the market but also a good reputation. Automakers should ensure their products have no defects and mechanical flaws which may put the life of people on the line.
Reference
Hartman, L. P., DesJardins, J. R. & MacDonald, C. (2014). Business Ethics: Decision-making for personal integrity and social responsibility. New York: McGraw-Hill.