Ethical Problem in Business from a Deontological and Utilitarian Perspective of Ethical Theories

Topic

A report on analysis of an ethical problem in business from a deontological and utilitarian perspective of ethical theories, along with critique through various normative theories concluding on what should have happened from an ethical and sustainable perspective.

Executive Summary

This report provides an analysis and evaluation of an ethical business problem in light of certain normative ethical theories. After the introduction of the problem, it is justified how the problem can be referred to as an ethical dilemma. Later on it is determined who is involved and effected through the help of stakeholder theory. Objective reasoning is then applied through utilizing the rules and principles defined in the language of applicable ethical theories to concisely describe the dilemma and coherently ascertain the ethical issues involved. It is also clarified through offering various alternative solutions how this complex business problem can be resolved by applying best management practice along with a critique on outcome through exploring repercussions of each solution. At the end it is concluded to utilize a blend of various normative theories in a phased manner so that the complexity of the problem is appreciated and an amicable solution is applied in the best interest of all stakeholders while ensuring sustainability of the business.

1. Introduction

The report focuses on the analysis and critique of an ethical problem in the context of a collective culture which has been recently influenced by globalization. It initially narrates the ethical problem identified from a real time operating organization in Pakistan and leads to verification of how this problem is of ethical importance and justifies through dissection of the problem through various normative theories. It also offers alternate solutions through best management practices and how their implementation will bring positive change.

2. Ethical Dilemma Described

Telecommunication sector was recently privatized in Pakistan few years ago where operating licenses were granted to five different operators. The regulatory body over these organizations named Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) was also restructured with the objective to "Create fair regulatory regime to promote investment, encourage competition, protect consumer interest, and ensure high quality Information Communication Technology services". Most of these operators that were granted licenses were foreign investment groups, some of them already having telecommunication operations in other countries with established processes. One of these investment groups had no prior experience in telecommunication business and their operations in Pakistan were purely a green-field project where all policies and procedures