The company has done research on the product and has known for quite a while that tobacco is not only dangerous, it is also addictive as well. Although the company denied knowledge of these facts when first questioned, management personnel eventually admitted to manipulating the addictive nicotine levels.
The beer industry has directed the marketing of malt liquor to "inner-city gang cultures and subtly associated the beer with feelings of being powerful and masterful (unknown)." Malt liquor contains a higher alcohol content, and while the beverage may make a person feel better about him or herself, it can ultimately result in greater incidences of cirrhosis of the liver, gang violence, and drunken driving deaths.
The food industry may be utilizing technology to genetically engineer and preserve its products, however,...
The company also produces foods that taste good due to the high fat content, but these foods contribute to obesity, which is becoming a major health crisis throughout the country.
Conclusion
Phillip Morris is currently facing a number of moral issues, and its management team has the difficult job of trying to balance consumer demand against the good of the general population. While Phillip Morris argues people have the right to choose whether they consume their products, utilitarianism concerns deal with the negative impact of these products, what is right and good for the population and the consequences that will be realized from using these products.
Works Cited
Unknown. Phillip Morris' Troubles. Ethical Principles. Pp. 157-163.
