This is a case that will be tried in the court of Public Opinion.
Depeche Vite Clothes Company, a United States corporation, buys clothing assembled by Gamma, LTD., a foreign company that employs children under 12 years of age. These children work nine hour days and for low pay. Gamma’s nation does not enforce its child labor laws limiting workdays to seven hours for children under 12. Many times the children’s income is needed by the family for basic necessities. Gamma and Depeche Vite are aware of this.
Human International Politics (HIP), an international political activist organization, discovered Depeche Vite’ connection to Gamma, LTD. HIP plans to reveal this information to the press and on social media. Depeche Vite hears about this proposed action by HIP. Before HIP can act, Depeche Vite terminates its relationship with Gamma. Depeche Vite then publicizes this action in its advertising. The company’s sales and profits increase, apparently as a direct result.
- Has Depeche Vite acted unethically in any way(s)? Explain using one of the ethical philosophies from the readings and facts from the scenario.
- From an ethical perspective, is Depeche Vite’ conduct in terminating its relationship with Gamma more important than whatever its motive might be? Why or why not?
