Select one of the scenarios listed below and explain the best solution for each. Include comments related to any ethical issues that arise. You should locate at least one scholarly source from the SUO Library or one case that has been decided or is currently pending to support your answer.
Scenario 1 - Bribery
Caterpillar, Inc. purchased four diesel engines from a manufacturer in Japan. The engines were needed immediately as replacements so that the crews could get back to work. The import manager knew that the engines did not comply with the Environmental Protection Agency emissions standards, but hoped that the U.S. Customs officers would not inspect the engines. The customer service manager threatened to call Customs and tell them that he paid their salary and they darn well better release the goods now.
The Customs officer explained that they were very busy, and it might take more than 24 hours to obtain release of the engines. When informed of this fact, the import manager offered the customs official $500 to sign off on the documents.
Analyze the legal and ethical ramifications of the purchasing manager's offer to the customs official.
Assume that the goods were not being inspected. Would it make a difference if the purchasing manager offered to donate $500 to Ronald McDonald House Charities if the officer expedited the paperwork necessary to release the goods from custom's custody?
Part 2 - Federal Administrative Agencies
Select one federal administrative agency and provide a summary of the purpose and types of activities the agency regulates. Use your own words to summarize the information. To avoid too many duplicates, students with the last name starting with A through L will select from Column A. Students with last names starting with M – Z will select from Column B.
Column A
Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau
Central Intelligence Agency
Department of Agriculture
Department of Commerce
Department of Defense
Department of Education
Department of Homeland Security
Department of Justice
Department of Veterans Affairs
Environmental Protection Agency
Sample Solution