Ethics and Governance

Ethics and Governance

Case Study and Culpable Decisions

A culpable decision is one in which blame for an action is justified. In such a decision, the individual is in control of the outcomes. In such a scenario, decisions made on behalf of the individual could alter the outcome. Therefore, the individual is held responsible for the unexpected and unfavourable outcome. Examples of such decision can be taking time off to run your personal errands. These things affect your work directly. Errands can be run when you are not at work or with proper permission before hand. That way, if something happens, there is someone ready to tackle the situation in your absence. A non culpable decision does not generate blame of any sort. Such instances occur due to factors that are not in the individual's control. They can be things like illness or injury. A laudable decision is one that is deserving of appraise. Such instances can be seen all around us. The recommendation of a tool that enhances safety, cuts costs and increases productivity is an example of a laudable decision (Rossouw, 2009, pp. 5-9).

The case study, “Apple's Supply Chain Woes”, describes events surrounding deaths at Apple's overseas facilities. It is a well known fact that companies transport their manufacturing plants to countries like India and China. This cuts down costs by up to ten fold. The lower standard of living, corrupt authorities and favourable labour laws attract foreign companies. By setting up their manufacturing departments here, they avoid the higher minimum wage laws back home. They also avoid numerous tax laws. This all means they can pocket more money at the end of the year. The condition of these plants and the work environment has been the centre of debate for many years now. Some believe that the foreign companies opening up these factories should instil first world values and work environments here. They should care for the workers just like they would care for workers back home. Officials from companies hide behind a wall of unjustified reasons. Keeping it simple, if they created an environment like that at home; they would not make as much money. For this reason, to make millions upon millions of dollars, they turn a blind eye to hazardous working environments, underage employees and hazardous work environments.

Foxconn, a major supplier for Apple, has been plagued by mishaps. The case study focuses on the suicides of workers and an explosion that took place in May 2011 in Chengdu. The study goes on to quote that the workers had been complaining about skin allergies, poor ventilation, dust and sore eyes. The workers had been working long hours and were not being paid accordingly. Steve Jobs was questioned about the negative media coverage of Foxconn and how Apple's suppliers were exploiting their workers. Steve Jobs express his amazement by saying they have restaurants and movie theaters but it is a factory!

Jobs' culpability should be ranked highest. As a man involved in every aspect of Apple's rise ...