Ethical Theories on Bribery

In the two articles, the most important issue is bribery; however, it is addressed from different perspectives. In the case of Walmart, the company is stated to have bribed bureaucrats in Mexico to expedite the process of acquiring building permits. Essentially, these bribes have collected over the years, which enabled Walmart to scale rapidly. However, if convicted, company executives face jail time of five years maximum. In the 2d article, economists in India argue that low-level bribery serves as a positive thing. It is evident from the dialogue that the particular businessman had to bribe all the way when developing his business. Moreover, he admits that even today he continues to give bribes more willingly considering that it positively impacts his company. According to ethical relativism principles, payment of bribes can be wrong or right, depending on the cultural settings (Poór 496). As such, if it acceptable in a particular society, then it is ethical for a business to use such practices, and vice versa.

In the United States, there are provisions in the Constitutions enacted to prevent both local and international corruption. Therefore, violating such laws in this country is considered a serious offense with a punishable prison time, which does not exceed five years. However, in Mexico, where Walmart allegedly committed crime, corruption, and bribery in personal life and business is acceptable (Melé and Carlos 683). In the same way, the article addressing the issue of bribery in India claims that economists advocate for the vice. In essence, if bribing few people during business operations will speed up essential requirements and help protect the company, then it is worth. Mr. Singh admits that although it was against his principles, he was forced to pay bribes when starting his internet business. However, today, he argues that he will pay them fast and willingly as it helps his company grow. The above examples illustrate cultural differences in as far as bribing practices are concerned.

Work Cited

Melé, Domènec, and Carlos Sánchez-Runde. “Cultural diversity and universal ethics in a global

world.” (2013): 681-687.

Poór, József, et al. “Idealism and relativism in ethics: The results of empirical research in seven

CEE countries & one North European country.” Journal of East European Management

Studies (2015): 484-505.