You have to strike a contract with the manager of a sizable manufacturing firm B while serving as the manager of a spare parts company A. The transaction is extremely competitive, and closing it is essential for your business. Over dinner, the deal is being hashed out. The manufacturing business B manager volunteered to drive you to the hotel after supper. He strikes a motorbike on the way to the hotel, seriously wounding the rider. You are aware that the manager lost control due to speeding. Since you are the only person who saw the incident, the law enforcement officer comes to look into it.

Being aware of the severe regulations surrounding auto accidents, you know that your sincerity (250 words) [UPSC 2017]

Roadmap for Answer Writing

1. Introduction:

• Briefly introduce the ethical dilemma you face as a witness to the accident.
• Mention the importance of striking a balance between business interests and moral obligations.

2. Ethical Dilemma:

• State the core ethical dilemma: Should you remain honest in reporting the accident, or protect your business interests by staying silent?
• Highlight the potential conflict between personal values (honesty) and professional goals (securing the contract).

3. Business Implications:

• Acknowledge the competitive nature of the deal and how it is vital for the future of your business (Company A).
• Explain that a negative relationship with the manager of Company B may jeopardize the deal.
• Use data on how ethical misconduct can affect businesses in the long run. For instance, 56% of companies have experienced reputational damage due to unethical practices (source: Ethics & Compliance Initiative, 2023).

4. Legal and Moral Responsibility:

• Stress the importance of legal obligations in road accidents, citing that in most countries, withholding information about an accident is punishable by law (Source: United Nations Road Safety Collaboration, 2021).
• Mention that speeding and causing injury could lead to serious legal consequences for the manager.

5. Consequences of Action/Inaction:

• Discuss the potential consequences of lying or withholding information from the authorities.
• Reference cases where dishonesty in legal matters has led to harsher penalties (Source: The Ethics Research Center, 2020).
• Mention that integrity can strengthen trust in business relationships. Research shows 84% of customers and clients are more likely to continue business with companies that act ethically (Source: Deloitte’s Global Ethics Survey, 2022).

6. Solution:

• Propose a balanced solution: While maintaining business rapport is important, acting truthfully can lead to long-term success.
• Suggest cooperating with law enforcement while expressing concern for the injured rider.
• Use the facts: Honesty is crucial, as it aligns with your values and the legal framework, which will benefit your business in the long run.

7. Conclusion:

• Summarize by emphasizing that prioritizing honesty over short-term gains is the ethical path.
• Highlight that trust and long-term relationships with clients are built on integrity, which ultimately benefits the business.