In this first assignment, the focus is on the ethical theories discussed in Unit 1. Consider the following scenario faced by the Volkswagen Automaker:
A Volkswagen engineer was directed to create defeat device software to temporarily cheat on emissions tests by turning pollution controls on only when being inspected by regulators. The engineer did not initially object based on moral views and intended to do as directed. However, before acting on the intention, the VW engineer became aware that the U.S. government was taking a much tougher approach to corporate wrongdoing and a company was harshly punished recently for violating government environmental regulations. Because of the new inconsistency between the anticipated and actual outcomes, the engineer begins to have second doubts about the intention.
Select and define three ethical theories discussed in Unit 1. Explain the differences between each theory and how each might be used in recommending a course of action to be taken by the Volkswagen engineer.
Your analysis as to each ethical theory should be one page in length. Research and cite to one additional authoritative source for each ethical theory other than the text materials. Your paper must be a total of 3 pages of content, excluding the title and references pages.
In addition to fulfilling the specifics of the assignment, a successful paper must also meet the following criteria:
Include a cover page and references page in 10–12 point font (Arial, Courier, and Times New Roman are acceptable)
Viewpoint and purpose should be clearly established and sustained
Assignment should follow the conventions of Standard English (correct grammar, punctuation, etc.)
Writing should be well ordered, logical, and unified, as well as original and insightful
Your work should display superior content, organization, style, and mechanics
Appropriate citation style should be followed
You should also make sure to:
Include a title page with full name, class name, section number, and date
Include an introductory and concluding paragraph and demonstrate college-level communication through the composition of original materials in Standard English
Use examples to support your discussion
Cite all sources on a separate reference page at the end of your paper and cite within the body of your paper using APA format and citation style. For more information on APA guidelines, visit Academic Tools.
