28. Which situation would be considered ethical in a society where cultural norms are relationship based but unethical under universalist norms?
Answer: A
A business awards a contract based only on the owner’s friendship with the other business owner.
In a society where cultural norms prioritize relationships, awarding a contract based on friendship can be seen as a reflection of trust and community ties. However, under universalist norms, which emphasize fairness and merit, this practice would be considered unethical.
A) A business awards a contract based only on the owner’s friendship with the other business owner.
This situation is considered ethical within relationship-based cultural norms because it values personal connections and loyalty. However, it conflicts with universalist ethics, which would argue that contracts should be awarded based on objective criteria, such as qualifications and competitive bidding, rather than personal relationships.
B) An employee decides not to report serious account discrepancies implicating a more senior manager.
This scenario is generally viewed as unethical under both relationship-based and universalist norms. Failing to report serious discrepancies undermines integrity and accountability, regardless of the cultural context.
C) An employee complains about abusive behavior by a manager.
Making a complaint about abusive behavior is typically seen as ethical across various cultural norms, including both relationship-based and universalist frameworks, as it promotes a safe and respectful workplace environment.
D) A job seeker misrepresents his experience in order to be considered for a job.
This action is considered unethical under both relationship and universalist norms. Misrepresentation undermines trust and fairness, as it deceives employers and violates principles of honesty and integrity.
Conclusion
The correct answer, A, highlights a clear distinction in ethical perspectives between relationship-based and universalist norms. While awarding contracts based on friendship may be acceptable in one context, it fails to meet the ethical standards expected under universalist principles, which emphasize fairness and impartiality. All other options represent actions that are generally unethical, regardless of the cultural framework, reinforcing the significance of integrity in professional conduct.