MGT610 - Business Ethics

SEMESTER FALL 2023

Assignment # 01
“Bc230423642”

Question 1:

Apply the principle of universalizability to evaluate Company XeeTech's policy regarding

returning old TechMate gadgets. Explain whether the policy meets the criteria of
universalizability.

Answer:

According to the ethical principle of universalizability, an act is ethically justified if its

foundation may be sincerely desired as a universal law. Whether or whether Company XeeTech
policy of enabling consumers to return outdated TechMate equipment and receive a discount on
a new purchase can be continuously willed as a universal law can be used to evaluate the policy.
If everyone did this there would be an endless supply of outdated electronics for recycling or
repair.
The strategy appears to align perfectly with the goal of universalizability it holds immense
promise for efficiently tackling the massive problem of electronic waste. We must be prudent
and recognize that it may fall short of the universalizability standard. Concerns may arise about
potential negative consequences, like overburdened workers or unfair treatment of those facing
increased demand. To effectively address this complex issue, thorough consideration of all
stakeholders and their individual potential outcomes becomes imperative.
Despite the policy benefits for the environment, workers may have unfavorable effects including
increased strain and stress. The fairness of the policy must also be taken into account, as those
who are not participating in these responsibilities may nevertheless be impacted by the increased
burden.
For that reason Company XeeTech's policy has potential drawbacks for stakeholders and workers
in addition to positive environmental benefits but it does not meet the universalizability criteria.

Question 2:

Apply the principle of reversibility to assess Company XeeTech’s policy. Discuss whether
the policy respects the principle of reversibility.

Answer:

Reversibility theory suggests that activities have the ability to be undone or reversed. This idea is
partially upheld by XeeTech's policy, which permits consumers to return outdated TechMate
devices and earn a discount on new purchases. For those working in organization that recycle
and renovate the policy could have resulted in more stress and longer workdays, but it cannot be
reversed. Because of the policy's dedication to environmental sustainability, there are questions
over its reversibility because it could be difficult to do so without having unfavorable effects.
Ensuring the long-term ethical sustainability of the strategy requires striking a balance between
environmental aims and employee well-being. To guarantee a more sustainable and fair
approach, adjustments could be required.
The policy implemented by Company XeeTech does not fully respect the principle of
reversibility, as potential negative consequences on the workforce suggest challenges in its ease
of reversal without causing harm. Reasonable Adjustments may be needed for a more balanced
approach.

Question 3:

Suggest an alternative policy that Company XeeTech could implement to align with their
commitment to sustainability while respecting the principles of universalizability and
reversibility

In the respect of business rules in my point of view approach that XeeTech could take is to adopt
a technology upgrade program. Customers who return their old TechMate devices will be
entitled to a predetermined discount off the price of the latest model, irrespective of its condition.
In this way, adoption of new and more ecologically sustainable technologies is promoted as
worries over recycling and refurbishment teams’ workload are lifted. This way, the firm can
recycle or reuse the returned devices hence promoting circular economy. The option in line with
environmental objectives offers an obvious benefit to customers and is less tasking on
employees.