Deck : Case7

Question 1

What are the ethical issues in this case?

Answer 1

In this case:
• Ex-cons are giving lecture or circuit talks about their unethical practices
• They are being paid quite well at $1,000s per lecture
The ethical issue is whether ex-cons should be paid at all for talking about their ethical violations. Some are concerned that this is rewarding to criminals as they should be further punished.

Question 2

What are the advantages and disadvantages of hiring ex-cons to speak to college students on the subject of business ethics? Is it appropriate for colleges and universities to pay felons to be guest speakers?

Answer 2

The advantages about ex-cons talking about their experiences is that they can provide illustrative stories about why they committed the crime. Cautionary tales can be effective if the characters themselves talk about it.
A possible disadvantage is when cons are rewarded more when speaking about their criminal activity through books, lectures, and movie rights. This may reduce the amount of deterrence having a prison sentence may have on potential criminals.

Question 3

What do you think you could learn from an ex-con speaking on business ethics?

Answer 3

A business student can learn about the ex-cons methods employed to get him to the higher positions. They may also learn about the ex-con's businesses and management philosophy that have led them to jail. This may teach students what to look for ethical considerations when joining a business and what businesses promote unethical practices.

Question 4

Successful business executives who speak to students on the subject of business ethics typically do not get paid. They do this as a service. Is it wrong to pay ex-cons to speak on their illicit motives and activities?