Business Ethics and Legalities Flashcards

An employee develops a new manufacturing process during work hours using company resources. According to general intellectual property principles, who typically owns the rights to this new process?

Answer: The company, as it was created in the course of employment

In most cases, intellectual property created by an employee within the scope of their employment, using company resources, is owned by the employer. This is often referred to as a 'work for hire' principle or is stipulated in an employment agreement.

A company's marketing materials make claims about a product's capabilities that are technically true but are presented in a way that is designed to mislead consumers. Which ethical principle is this company violating?

Answer: Honesty

Honesty in business ethics requires a commitment to being truthful and not deceptive in communications. While the claims may be technically true, the intent to mislead violates the core principle of honest advertising and transparent communication.

Which of the following is considered an illegal basis for discrimination in hiring decisions according to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)?

Answer: National origin

The EEOC enforces federal laws prohibiting discrimination against a job applicant or an employee because of the person's race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information.

A manager offers a promotion to an employee in exchange for a personal favor that is unrelated to work performance. This situation is an example of:

Answer: A conflict of interest

A conflict of interest occurs when an individual's personal interests interfere—or appear to interfere—with the interests of the company. Using a position of authority to seek personal gain creates a conflict between the manager's duty to make decisions for the company's benefit and their own personal interests.

A binding agreement between two or more parties that is enforceable by law is known as a:

Answer: Contract

A contract is a legally enforceable agreement that creates, defines, and governs mutual rights and obligations among its parties. Key elements typically include an offer, acceptance, consideration, and the intention to create legal relations.

A corporation decides to donate a percentage of its profits to local charities and implement a company-wide recycling program. These actions are an example of which business concept?

Answer: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a business model where companies make a concerted effort to operate in ways that enhance, rather than degrade, society and the environment. This includes philanthropic activities, ethical labor practices, and environmental sustainability efforts.