6 Questions
What are some examples of problematic HR practices from an ethical perspective?
Some examples of problematic HR practices from an ethical perspective include the (mis)use of IT and AI in the workplace, pay gaps between genders, ethnicities, CEOs and average workers, and unfair recruitment and selection practices.
What is the golden calf fallacy in the context of HRM ethics?
The golden calf fallacy assumes that all human values should be subordinated to business considerations and calculations, claiming that workers are merely economic assets.
Explain the enlightened self-interest or 'business case' fallacy in the context of HRM ethics.
The enlightened self-interest or 'business case' fallacy pretends that business considerations alone are sufficient for companies to look after their employees, without outside regulation from the state or trade unions. It suggests that it is in the self-interest of business to treat workers well, and that, for this reason alone, they no longer need to fear for their own protection.
What is the happy family fallacy in the context of HRM ethics?
The happy family fallacy assumes that the state and trade unions are unwelcome intrusions into a fundamentally harmonious, unitarist employment relationship. It suggests that most American-style HRM theory is unitarist in outlook and either silent about or actively hostile to trade unions as representative bodies.
What is the key concept in virtue ethics as related to HRM?
The key concept in virtue ethics as related to HRM is that virtue is embodied in a person's character, and individuals should aspire to lead a virtuous life.
Explain the concept of globally standardized HRM and its implications for multinational corporations.
Globally standardized HRM aims to achieve consistency, transparency, and alignment across geographically fragmented workforces by implementing common principles, objectives, practices, and policies. This approach facilitates easier management and control of operations for multinational corporations.
Study Notes
Problematic HR Practices from an Ethical Perspective
- HR practices can be problematic from an ethical perspective, highlighting the importance of ethical considerations in HR decision-making
The Golden Calf Fallacy
- Occurs when organizations prioritize short-term gains over long-term sustainability and ethical considerations
- Involves sacrificing ethical principles for immediate benefits, ultimately harming the organization and its stakeholders
The Enlightened Self-Interest or 'Business Case' Fallacy
- Assumes that doing good (e.g., diversity initiatives) will automatically lead to doing well (e.g., increased profits)
- Overlooks the possibility that ethical practices may not always yield immediate financial benefits, but are still important for ethical reasons
The Happy Family Fallacy
- Involves ignoring or downplaying conflicts and issues within an organization to maintain a facade of harmony
- Can lead to unresolved problems, decreased productivity, and negative impacts on employees and the organization as a whole
Virtue Ethics in HRM
- Focuses on cultivating virtues such as fairness, respect, and compassion in organizational practices and decision-making
- Encourages HR professionals to consider the character and moral principles guiding their actions
Globally Standardized HRM in Multinational Corporations
- Involves implementing uniform HR policies and practices across different countries and cultures
- Raises concerns about cultural sensitivity, local adaptability, and potential negative impacts on local workforces and communities
Test your knowledge of ethical issues in HR practices with this quiz. Explore topics such as (mis)use of IT and AI, pay gaps, unfair recruitment, and the fallacies of HRM ethics. See how well you understand the ethical dilemmas faced by HR professionals.
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