Business Ethics Case Study: Zarley's Case

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“Ethics is the critical, structured examination of how individuals and institutions should behave when their actions affect others (Chris MacDonald)”. The scenario suggests that Brady, a prospective landlord is giving a bribe to Zarley. Zarley represents the bank and its values, therefore his actions should present the image of his company. Bribery is clearly an unethical and illegal act that was possessed by Brady. Zarley made the right decision by returning the money and iPads to Brady. This was a very difficult choice for Zarley because he really needed that money. Perhaps, it would have been harder for them to get caught because they were ‘gifts’ for his family and there was no one there with them who would have seen this. However, Zarley’s …show more content…

In addition to the fact that Zarley would engage in illegal and unethical activity if he were to accept the bribe; he would also be held liable for the breach of contract. Although there are multiple ethical reasoning’s that can be used, the most suitable reason would be rights and duties. Every prospective landlord has the right to be chosen based on their land as well as the offers they are giving to the bank, instead of the ‘gifts’ they will be providing for Zarley. Zarley is the procurement manager which imposes responsibility on him due to his role as a manager. It is his duty to act ethically and legally when making such decisions. His choices will have a direct impact on the bank. “Wherever an employment relationship exists, both employers and employees have rights and obligations (minkemployment)”, which are detailed in employment contracts. Contractual terms can be verbal or implied in some circumstances, however in Zarley’s case they are explicitly written. Therefore, he is obliged to follow them, otherwise there will be severe consequences for Zarley if he were to get