Abuses in Every System, Whether it Be

¶ … abuses in every system, whether it be capitalism, communism or socialism and such abuses are primarily due to one specific motivating factor; greed. Greed is not just a few individuals who woke up one morning and decided to move their businesses to other countries because they could make more money, this is actually a societal problem of immense proportions. One recent study determined that "issues are generated in response to the dynamics of the social system and unfold within the larger structural and historical contexts where the character of the individual takes shape" (Hansen, Movahedi, 2010, p. 367). In other words the individual's greed is influenced by society, and not vice versa. The study also asserted that "the most popular explanation of the (recent) contemporary financial crisis with its disastrous social and economic consequences is personal greed" (p.367). Whether it is society's greed or the individual's greed makes no difference, the results seem to be catastrophic no matter what. However, the book states that "many of today's organizations are demonstrating what is known as corporate social responsibility -- not only attempting to meet prevailing legal and ethical standards but also exceeding them by embracing values that promote the greater welfare of society at large" (p. 37) which is an excellent example of the individual and corporations placing more emphasis on social welfare than on the inherent greed that can often lead to disastrous results.

2) Apple; like most major corporations, must walk a fine line between satisfying its shareholders and its customers while at the same time satisfying its corporate social responsibilities that many demand must be met.

Due to its muscle in the marketplace Apple can accomplish many things that other firms might not have the capability of accomplishing. Some of these things that can be accomplished include ensuring that employees are well treated. On the other hand, if employees are not treated well at FoxComm then it is likely that the employees will leave the firm for greener pastures elsewhere. Is it Apple's responsibility to ensure that another company's employees are treated well? No. If Apple were to take such a stand, then they could be applauded and FoxComm might change its practices. However, it is not Apple's responsibility to take on another company's practices. What Apple can do is say to FoxComm, if you don't change the way you treat your employees, we will take our business elsewhere, but it is not Apple's responsibility to do so at all.

3) The fruits of labor are enjoyed by all of society, even those workers who may be used in strenuous manners. As our text states, oftentimes it is how "justice is perceived" (p. 37) that brings about change. If FoxComm's actions are perceived in a negative manner, then pressure will be brought to bear through the workplace environment that will bring those actions to the forefront. The workplace is constantly changing, improving and enhancing society and individual lives. As the demand for certain products grows, so does the labor market for producing those products. Perceived justice in the developed countries is often different than the perceived justice in developing countries. As those developing countries continue their efforts to become 'developed' naturally practices change and improve with that development.