Ethical Reasoning That Led To Wrong-Doing by the Large Organization

 
The ethical reasoning that led to the wrong-doing by the large organization is most likely consequentialist. Consequentialist reasoning is based on the notion that the consequences of an action are the ultimate determinant of its moral worth. In this case, the executives at Ford likely weighed the moral costs of making their product safer against the economic costs associated with doing so and ultimately decided that the economic costs outweighed the moral ones (De George, 1981). This decision was likely made to maximize the organization’s profits, which is a specific goal of consequentialist reasoning.

Consequentialist reasoning is a type of ethical reasoning that focuses on an action’s outcomes rather than its moral character. In this case, the executives at Ford were more concerned with the potential financial costs of making their product safer rather than the moral implications of doing so (De George, 1981). This likely led them to prioritize their economic interests over the safety of their customers and the public, resulting in the wrong-doing in question.

Conclusion
Richard DeGeorge’s study of whistleblowing concludes that the practice has both ethical and practical benefits. Ethically, whistleblowers help to protect vulnerable populations, maintain trust in the public, and prevent corporate abuse. On the practical side, whistleblowing can reduce the costs associated with corporate malfeasance and provide a valuable check to corporate power. Whistleblowers motivated by a sense of justice rather than personal gain are more likely to be successful in their efforts and will also be more likely to gain public support.

Despite the potential benefits of whistleblowing, it is still a risky endeavor. Organizations should strive to create a culture of openness and transparency to minimize its need. Whistleblowing is an important tool in the fight against unethical and illegal behavior. I agree with DeGeorge’s position that whistleblowing is morally justifiable in certain circumstances, and individuals need to be willing to stand up for what is right and protect the public interest.

References
De George, R. T. (1981). Ethical responsibilities of engineers in large organizations: The Pinto case. Business & Professional Ethics Journal, 1(1), 1-14.