# writings

Question 1 - List the ethical issues

* Always have (<mark style="color:red;">Issue</mark>) + (<mark style="color:yellow;">Moral Actor</mark>)
  * <mark style="color:red;">Potential Corruption</mark> by the <mark style="color:yellow;">governing family of Shalaomoon</mark>
  * <mark style="color:red;">Exploitation/Pollution</mark> of the <mark style="color:yellow;">environment of Shalaomoon by the local farmers of Shalaomoon.</mark>
  * <mark style="color:red;">Forced Relocation</mark> of the <mark style="color:yellow;">people in Teemunitur</mark>&#x20;
  * <mark style="color:red;">Armed resistance</mark> by the <mark style="color:yellow;">Penyu People to the Empress of Teemunitur</mark>
  * <mark style="color:red;">Age/Gender Discrimination OR sexual harassment OR lack of proper workplace conditions during Employment</mark> of the Worcester People <mark style="color:yellow;">by the Manchimus People</mark>
  * <mark style="color:red;">Rights of the Caprusiem people to privacy</mark> <mark style="color:yellow;">violated by the JJQD government.</mark>
  * <mark style="color:red;">Deceptive advertising/Corruption/Misuse of funds</mark> <mark style="color:yellow;">by Company ABC.</mark>

<mark style="color:red;">More Issues</mark>

* Corruption
* Support for repressive governments
* Exploitation of workers
* Failure to ensure worker and community safety
* Irreparable destruction of the environment
* Suppression of Safety Concerns
* Exploitations
* Lack of transparency
* Exploitation of trust
* Suppression of information
* Failure in due diligence
* Neglect of stakeholder interests
* Moral conflict / Ethical dissonance
* Violation of professional duty
* Short-term profit prioritization
* Ethical blindness / Ethical fading
* Absence of informed consent
* Failure to justify ethical assumptions
* Inequitable treatment
* Lack of accountability
* Systemic ethical failure
* Complicity in harm
* CSR
  * Corporate irresponsibility
  * Conflict of interest
  * Vicarious liability
  * Abuse of professional power
  * Disregard for CSR/ESG obligations
  * Stakeholder marginalization
  * Employment injustice (e.g., at-will exploitation)
  * Neglect of vocational responsibility
  * Failure to enforce codes of conduct
  * Deceptive marketing

    Manipulative advertising

    Lack of integrity in brand messaging

    Omission of material risk

    Failure to enable consensual exchange

    Exploitation of vulnerable audiences

    Distortion of consumer autonomy

    Unethical promotion tactics
* **Marketing**
  * Deceptive marketing
  * Manipulative advertising
  * Lack of integrity in brand messaging
  * Omission of material risk
  * Failure to enable consensual exchange
  * Exploitation of vulnerable audiences
  * Distortion of consumer autonomy
  * Unethical promotion tactics
* Environment
  * Unsustainable resource use

    Ecological harm beyond ecosystem thresholds

    Neglect of environmental stakeholder interests

    Violation of intergenerational justice

    Instrumental view of nature

    Anthropocentrism / Speciesism (Singer vs. Cohen)

    Failure to integrate intrinsic environmental value

    Lack of ecological accountability
* General!
  * Violation of autonomy (Beauchamp & Childress)

    Disregard for justice as fairness (Rawls)

    Utilitarian bias at expense of rights

    Libertarian neglect of social welfare

    Meritocracy myth critique (Sandel)

    Displacement of responsibility (systemic level)

Question 2 - Apply 2-3 of the most compelling ethical theories/frameworks to the ethical issues identified.

| Sections to answering the question                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            | Notes                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               |
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| <ol><li>The issues that arise on the current set of facts are the \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_</li></ol>                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  | <p>(State ethical issues)<br></p>                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |
| <ol start="2"><li>I will first examine (ethical issue 1) through the use of the following ethical theories \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_,</li></ol>                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              | (State ethical theories used)                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       |
| 3) then the (ethical issue 2) through the use of the ethical theories \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_, to determine if their actions are ethical.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  | (State ethical theories used)                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       |
| 4) Ethical Issue 1 Part 1                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     | <p>Ethical Issue 1<br><br>\[State] The family governing Shalaomoon is ultrarich, with accusations that their riches were obtained through corrupt practices.<br><br>\[Moving] With that, I will be delving into the 3 ethical theories to better analyse the ethicality of the situation </p>                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       |
| <p>5) Ethical Issue 1 Part 2<br><br><br><br>\[Transitional Phrases]</p><ul><li><strong>"While X emphasizes..., Y argues..."</strong></li><li><strong>"Unlike X, which is outcome-focused, Y is duty-based..."</strong></li><li><strong>"However, in this scenario, the assumptions behind X fall short..."</strong></li><li><strong>"Both X and Y would condemn this action, but for different reasons..."</strong></li></ul> | <p>\[Theory 1] Based on their accusations of corruption, we can see that the family has violated the Principle of Just Acquisition as their wealth was likely unjustly obtained through their control.<br><br>However, as Nozick's entitlement theory, there is no obligation for the rich to help the poor.<br><br>While Nozick’s entitlement theory might superficially defend the governing family’s wealth, his argument rests on the assumption that the acquisition is just. Given the international media’s allegations of corruption, this assumption is questionable. Unlike Rawls, who prioritizes systemic fairness and distributive justice, or Kant, who assesses moral legitimacy through universal maxims, Nozick provides limited tools to critique systemic exploitation or misuse of political power. Therefore, in contexts involving potential corruption, Rawls and Kant offer more robust ethical evaluations.<br><br></p><p>\[Theory 2]  Through the lens of XX /Based on their actions, XX supports/ does not support it.<br><br>.<br>.<br>.<br><br>Although utilitarianism offers a pragmatic justification — maximizing well-being through economic development — both Buddhist and Islamic ethics highlight the intrinsic value of nature beyond human utility. Where utilitarianism measures outcomes, Buddhist and Islamic frameworks emphasize the moral duties we owe to non-human life. In doing so, they challenge anthropocentric assumptions and offer more ecologically sensitive perspectives. Ultimately, utilitarianism may justify short-term harm for long-term gain, but Buddhist and Islamic ethics remind us that some forms of harm — particularly to ecosystems and vulnerable species — may be morally indefensible, regardless of utility.<br><br>\[Mini Conclusion] By XXX,YYY,ZZ. this ethical issue is not ethical.<br><br>ie. Although Nozick provides one possible justification, both Rawls and Kant clearly demonstrate that the governing family's actions, if corrupt and self-serving, are unethical. The imbalance of power, lack of transparency, and failure to benefit the least advantaged ultimately make the situation unjust.</p> |
| 6) Ethical Issue 2                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            | Repeat Step 4 and 5                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 |
| <p>7) Overall Conclusion<br>- For all issues at the end of the essay</p>                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      | Overall, their actions are not ethical as in a long term view,... although they may gain short term benefits like..                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 |
| 8) Recommendation                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             | <p>\[Recommendation]<br>- Don't expand the data centres as they pollute the environment<br>- Always ask for consent. If harm is done, retributive justice should be employed.<br><br>In line with Rawlsian justice and Kantian duty-based ethics, the governing family should implement transparent redistributive policies that invest in education, healthcare, and democratic institutions — not merely for appearance, but to ensure decisions reflect respect for the autonomy and dignity of all citizens.<br><br>Star Paper’s investment should undergo strict independent environmental assessments, with input from local communities and indigenous groups. Aligning with Buddhist and Islamic ethics, any development must honor the interconnectedness of all life, and uphold the duty to protect the planet.</p>                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      |

Question 3 - Come to a conclusion of each ethical issue identified. Where appropriate provide recommendations on what could be done differently?

Depth comparison:

IB

\[Ethics of care]\
Ethics of Care challenges the impersonal, abstract reasoning of traditional ethical theories by emphasizing **empathy**, **mutual care**, and **contextual morality**. In CSR and international business, it reframes ethical obligations not as rights or rules, but as **moral responsibilities grounded in relationships** — between corporations and communities, humans and nature.

A business like Star Paper, entering a developing country, should not simply ask “What are the legal or economic benefits?” but rather, “**Who will be harmed, who will benefit, and how can we maintain care and respect for all stakeholders — especially the vulnerable?**” Ethics of Care would criticize extractive practices that ignore **local voices**, **ecosystems**, and **long-term relational harm**, even if they bring short-term development.

&#x20;**Implication**&#x20;

⇒ Star Paper’s ethical legitimacy depends on how well it **cares for** the people of Shalaomoon and its environment — not just whether it "creates jobs." Decisions made without community consent or that sacrifice environmental health would be seen as **morally irresponsible**\
\
\[Buddhist]

Buddhist ethics stresses **non-harming of all sentient beings**, not only humans. In CSR and international business, this implies that corporations must not act in ways that cause suffering to people, animals, or ecosystems — even if it's legal or profitable.

The principle of **Right Livelihood** (part of the Noble Eightfold Path) prohibits engaging in occupations that harm the environment or living beings. Hence, destroying 1,000 ha of rainforest for profit would violate this precept, as it harms both biodiversity and the spiritual/ecological balance of the land.

Buddhism also promotes **compassionate action** and the idea of **no-self (anattā)** — rejecting ego-driven gain at the cost of others. Therefore, corporations must recognize their **moral interconnectedness** with the communities and ecologies they affect.\
\
⇒ CSR under Buddhist ethics demands **deep ecological respect** and long-term harmony. Any project that treats land and people as mere instruments is unethical, no matter the financial gain.\\

\[Hindu]

n Hindu philosophy, **Dharma** includes duties to society, nature, and the cosmic order (ṛta). A business acting ethically must uphold its **social and environmental Dharma** — which includes **preserving balance** and promoting well-being across generations.

**Ahimsa**, or non-violence, is a central tenet shared with Buddhism, extending to animals and nature. Deforestation that threatens orangutans and hornbills would be seen as an act of violence against divine manifestations of life.

Moreover, **karma** suggests that actions have long-term moral consequences — so harm done today, even for “development,” will eventually circle back in the form of ecological collapse, societal unrest, or loss of legitimacy.

&#x20;**Implication:**

⇒ Hindu ethics calls for **CSR that honors all beings as sacred**. Ethical business isn't just about what is legal or economically efficient — it’s about **living up to moral duties** toward the Earth and future generations.

Environment

\[Utilitarianism]

**Utilitarianism** would argue that exploiting natural resources is acceptable if the **benefits to human society outweigh the harm** to the environment. However, **long-term sustainability** becomes a critical factor in evaluating whether the utility derived from resource exploitation can be sustained. If resource depletion leads to greater harm than good in the future (e.g., climate change, biodiversity loss), then it becomes unethical from a utilitarian perspective.

\[**Deep Ecology**, a biocentric ethical theory, would reject any form of exploitation that leads to **environmental degradation**. It advocates for **intrinsic value in nature** beyond human utility, asserting that all living beings have inherent value and deserve moral consideration. From this perspective, environmental exploitation is inherently unethical, regardless of human benefits, and sustainability becomes a moral duty.]

\[**Conclusion**: **Deep Ecology** and **Islamic ethics** prioritize the intrinsic value of nature, while **utilitarianism** can be more flexible depending on the perceived benefits and harms. However, all three would agree that **long-term sustainability** is critical for ethical decision-making.]

CSR

**Rawls' Theory of Justice**, by contrast, would argue that businesses have a responsibility to ensure their actions do not perpetuate **inequality** or harm the least advantaged. In this sense, Rawls would argue that CSR is an ethical **obligation** for corporations to ensure fair treatment and improve the conditions of disadvantaged communities, especially if they benefit disproportionately from resources that belong to the public.

**Milton Friedman’s view**, often invoked in business ethics discussions, holds that **businesses' primary responsibility is to maximize profits for their shareholders**. Friedman would argue that engaging in CSR or considering social welfare detracts from business efficiency, is a misuse of corporate resources, and ultimately harms the economy by redistributing wealth unnecessarily. **Market-based ethics** would thus support profit maximization as a moral duty.

**Utilitarianism** would assess whether CSR increases or decreases overall happiness. If CSR leads to positive social outcomes (e.g., environmental sustainability, improved working conditions), it could be justified. However, if the company’s CSR initiatives are mere **public relations** stunts or fail to generate tangible benefits, they would not be considered ethical. Utilitarianism would always weigh **consequences** to determine the ethicality of CSR.

Conflict of Interest

**Kantian ethics** would argue that acting in one’s self-interest, when it conflicts with professional duties, **violates the moral principle of duty and respect for others**. A person’s duty to act impartially and according to moral principles overrides any self-interest. Therefore, Kant would strongly condemn **conflicts of interest** as a failure to respect others as ends in themselves.

From a **utilitarian perspective**, a conflict of interest could be justified if it **maximizes overall utility**. For instance, if personal gain leads to more productivity or a better outcome for society, it might be morally acceptable. However, if the conflict harms others or undermines trust in the institution, the long-term consequences would likely render it **unethical**.

**Virtue ethics** would assess whether acting in one’s self-interest aligns with virtuous characteristics like **honesty, fairness, and integrity**. A virtuous person would avoid situations where personal interests could undermine their professional duties because it’s a **failure of moral character** to put oneself above the collective well-being.

**Conclusion**: **Kantian ethics** offers the most rigid stance against conflicts of interest, arguing that moral duties are paramount. **Utilitarianism** may allow conflicts of interest if it leads to greater good, and **virtue ethics** would criticize them based on the individual’s character.

\[Rawls]

According to Rawls’ *difference principle*, inequalities are just only if they benefit the least advantaged. The key legal-like move here is asking: **Has the inequality passed procedural legitimacy and outcome legitimacy?** Given the family’s wealth accumulation through alleged corruption and absence of distributive benefits to citizens, the inequality fails both tests. Therefore, it's not merely unethical — it's structurally unjust.

* Procedural -> Company conducts a proper public consultation before stating a project -> even if people disagree with the project, it is procedurally fair.
  * Build trusts in systems.
* Outcome ->  End result is seen as good; even if the process was flawed.
  * Ensures fairness and justice

\[Kantian]\
Under Kant’s categorical imperative, the maxim "those in power may enrich themselves through opaque means" cannot be universalised without collapsing public trust in governance. A Kantian legalist would also stress the violation of *respect for persons*: the public is treated as a means to an end — funding the elite — rather than ends in themselves.

* Precedent Thinking -> Using past examples to justify a position
* Hypothetical Thinking -> Creates what if tests to show consequences.

\
\[Nozick]\
Nozick’s theory hinges on **justice in acquisition** and **justice in transfer**. If wealth is acquired through corruption — a non-consensual, coercive act — then even Nozick’s libertarian framework collapses. It would be akin to property law where initial acquisition through fraud invalidates all subsequent claims. Nozick is not a blanket defense for the elite; rather, his theory assumes clean hands.\
\
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\[Summary]\
Rawls and Kant provide clear grounds to reject the governing family’s actions — the former based on distributive justice, the latter on duty and respect. Even Nozick, often misunderstood as a laissez-faire apologist, would reject acquisitions made through unjust or coercive means. Where Rawls demands benefit to the least advantaged, and Kant demands universalisable principles, Nozick requires legitimate acquisition. The governing family fails all three standards — suggesting a systemic ethical and legal failure.
