analyze the legal, ethical, and business implications of DuPont's actions regarding the use of
PFOA. You will examine the aspects of product liability and business ethics illustrated in this scenario and
discuss the broader implications for businesses dealing with potentially harmful products.
This assignment relates to the following course objectives:
- utilize online and library resources to evaluate and disseminate information,
- apply theories used in product liability matters to fictional scenarios,
- analyze the various ethical theories that apply to business.
Assignment Details:
- Preparation. Choose an option:
o Option 1: Watch the documentary “The Devil We Know” (2018) through an online resource
such as Netflix, AppleTV, Hulu or another service provider
o Option 2: Read detailed accounts of the C8 study and the outcomes of the class action
lawsuit against DuPont linked here and here.
o Students may also review the recent EPA final regulations on limiting PFAS exposure
in drinking water in the United States that were issued in 2024 for further
background on the current research on PFAS exposure and disease load in the US
population
Full Answer Section
- Transparency and Disclosure: The company's failure to disclose information about the health risks associated with PFOA is a clear violation of ethical principles.
Broader Implications for Businesses
The DuPont case serves as a cautionary tale for businesses operating in today's globalized economy. It highlights the importance of:
- Product Safety: Rigorous testing and evaluation of products to ensure they are safe for consumers and the environment.
- Transparency and Disclosure: Open and honest communication with stakeholders about potential risks and hazards.
- Ethical Decision-Making: Prioritizing ethical considerations over short-term profits.
- Long-Term Sustainability: Adopting sustainable business practices that minimize environmental impact and promote social responsibility.
Conclusion
The DuPont case underscores the far-reaching consequences of corporate misconduct. By understanding the lessons learned from this case, businesses can make more informed decisions and avoid similar mistakes. As consumers and citizens, we must hold corporations accountable for their actions and demand greater transparency and responsibility.
Note: For a more in-depth analysis, it is recommended to consult additional resources, such as academic articles, news reports, and legal documents related to the DuPont case.
Sample Answer
DuPont and PFOA: A Case Study in Corporate Responsibility
The Devil's Due: DuPont's Legacy of Harm
DuPont's use of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in the production of Teflon and other products led to significant environmental and health consequences. The company's actions, or rather, inactions, have raised critical questions about corporate responsibility, product liability, and ethical business practices.
Legal Implications
- Product Liability: DuPont faced numerous lawsuits from individuals who suffered health problems linked to PFOA exposure. These lawsuits alleged that the company failed to warn consumers about the potential risks of its products.
- Environmental Liability: The company was also held accountable for environmental contamination caused by PFOA, including water pollution and soil contamination.
Ethical Implications
- Corporate Social Responsibility: DuPont's actions raised serious ethical questions about its commitment to corporate social responsibility. The company's prioritization of profits over public health and environmental protection is a stark example of corporate negligence.