What is this text about? What is the main issue or problem raised in this text?
The author discusses the deterioration of work ethics among young employees. This article is aimed at showing that many young people dismiss the ideas of hard work and responsibility (“A New Work Ethic?”, 2013, p. 179). They try to find shortcuts that can help them avoid making any effort. Moreover, many of them believe that success can be achieved with the help of deceit or fraud.
How does the author address the problem?
The author does not suggest any ways of addressing this problem.
What is the main conclusion of this text? What recommendations (if any) are offered?
There is a fundamental change in the attitudes and perceptions of many young people. In particular, they do not believe that it is possible to derive any satisfaction from work. Additionally, this attitude adversely affects their workplace behaviour. Yet, the writer does not offer any recommendations. Overall, this problem can be partly addressed with the help of better recruitment methods and incentives that can be given to workers.
What are the strengths (if any) of the argument(s) presented in this text? What are its weaknesses (if any)? Briefly state the reasons behind your evaluation.
The author’s arguments have several limitations. First, they are based on the study of only one organization. Moreover, the writer relies on the observation of other people’s behaviour, and this research technique is often unreliable. Certainly, the author mentions various attitude surveys. Yet, the readers do not know what kind of companies were examined. So, the main limitation is that the author does not describe data collection procedures.
How has this text contributed to your understanding of business ethics? State up to the three most important things you have learnt after reading this text.
This text has demonstrated to me that many young people may perceive their jobs as something boring, monotonous and unrewarding. Secondly, they may perceive theft or other crimes as something acceptable. Finally, they do not recognize the value of responsibility and initiative.
Reference List
A New Work Ethic? (2013). In W. Shaw (Ed.), Moral Issues in Business (pp. 179-180). New York, NY: Cengage Learning.