Paul L. Schumann

A moral principles framework for human resource management ethics

Abstract This paper argues that the analysis of ethical issues in human resource management is legitimate and important. It argues that the theory of ethical relativism should be rejected and that it is meaningful to search for universal moral principles. It then presents a comprehensive framework for making judgments about human resource management ethics that consists of five complementary moral principles that have been developed and studied by philosophers: utilitarian ethics, rights ethics (using Kants categorical imperative), distributive justice ethics, care ethics, and virtue ethics. It illustrates the application of the moral framework by analyzing the ethics of deceiving employees about the hazardous nature of chemicals in the workplace, the ethics of discrimination in employment, and the ethics of sexual harassment.

Designing and Introducing Ethical Dilemmas into Computer-Based Business Simulations:

This article makes two contributions to the teaching of business ethics literature. First, it describes the steps involved in developing effective ethical dilemmas to incorporate into a computer-based business simulation. Second, it illustrates these steps by presenting two ethical dilemmas that an instructor can incorporate into any business simulation. Instructors who use business simulations in their courses can use the sample dilemmas as presented or modify them as desired or necessary to fit their course design and objectives. Instructors can also use the steps described to develop their own ethical dilemmas.

Using computer-based simulation exercises to teach business ethics

This paper discusses how to introduce ethical dilemmas into computer-based business simulation exercise to teach business ethics. Simulations have an inherent advantage over other pedagogies for teaching ethics because simulations provide students with both an intellectual and a behavioral exposure to the topic. Issues addressed include considerations before writing ethical dilemmas, the writing of ethical dilemmas, and process issues for introducing ethical dilemmas. An example is developed and discussed. Through the process described, instructors can better prepare students for a lifetime of tough business decisions.

Is Arbitration Habit Forming? The Narcotic Effect of Arbitration Use

This paper explores the existence of structural state dependence in arbitration use where it is legally mandated to resolve labor-management bargaining disputes. Previous studies have found both positive state dependence (the narcotic effect) and negative state dependence. This paper reports a negative state dependence for the Minnesota public sector during the period 1973 to 1980. A weak positive trend in arbitration probabilities and a positive relationship between current arbitration probabilities and the proportion of bargainers engaging in arbitration during the same calendar year are also found. An analysis of the dynamic implications of these findings does not support fears that compulsory arbitration schemes are unstable or lead to arbitration as the dominant settlement mode. Copyright Fondazione Giacomo Brodolini and Blackwell Publishers Ltd 1997.