Which the following decision-making scenarios presents an ethical dilemma?

A) A disgruntled employee of one of your competitors has offered to reveal details of his company's new strategy if you were to hire him. This competitor has in the past poached key executives from your company and engaged in industrial espionage in other ways.
B) You are manager of a large facility in a country where paying bribes to public officials is a way of life. Your company has a zero-tolerance policy toward bribing, but the officials are threatening to close down the factory, rendering several thousand workers jobless, if you don't comply.
C) It has been brought to your notice that the company competing with you for a major contract is trying to bribe and influence decision makers in a bid to get the contract. Some of your executives feel that your company should also do the same because getting this contract will make a big difference to the company's future.
D) The last inspection at your plant revealed structural problems with some of the buildings that, if not fixed immediately, could compromise worker safety. However, your company is low on funds and taking on repair work will push the company into the red.

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SHaARDUL SHARMA · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : B, Explanation :  This scenario presents an ethical dilemma as the manager is torn between following the company's zero-tolerance policy towards bribing and potentially putting several thousand workers out of a job if the factory is closed down by public officials. It is important to consider the long-term consequences and impact of each decision, and to find a solution that adheres to ethical principles while also protecting the livelihood of employees.

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