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Johnson, Organizational Ethics 3e, © 2015 – Instructor Resources
Case Study 6.1
Saying No to Trader Joe’s
Case Synopsis and Analysis
African-American citizens of Portland, Oregon defeated efforts to place a Trader Joe’s in a
predominately African-American neighborhood despite the support of minority business owners
and the Urban League. Opponents worried that the arrival of the high-end grocer would
contribute to “gentrification” of the neighborhood and displace poorer citizens. They called
instead for the construction of low cost housing on the land.
Negotiations failed because important parties were left out of the discussions. These groups
feared that the project would have a negative impact on the community. However, future
negotiations could resolve differences and satisfy the interests of all groups.
Learning Objectives
*Students will identify the interests of the parties in the case.
*Students will identify the ethical negotiation issues raised in the case.
*Students will develop possible solutions for future negotiations.
Discussion Guide
Case Study 6.2
Bullies in the Locker Room
Case Synopsis and Analysis
Miami Dolphins offensive lineman Jonathan Martin drew national attention to the problem of
workplace bullying when he quit the team, claiming harassment from teammates. An
investigation by the National Football League found that what happened to Martin was a “classic
case of bullying.” Martin and others were the targets of gay slurs, threats, obscene gestures and
other forms of harassment from fellow linemen. The team took disciplinary action against some
involved in the bullying but almost every Dolphins player sided with the primary abuser,
criticizing Martin for being “soft.”
Johnson, Organizational Ethics 3e, © 2015 – Instructor Resources
This case demonstrates that anyone, no matter how large, can be the victim of bullying
behaviors. Further, the response of Martin’s fellow employees—criticize the victim—is all too
common. Bullying will likely continue in the NFL until the league’s macho culture changes.
Learning Objectives
*Students will recognize that anyone, no matter how large or strong, can be the victim
of bullying.
*Students will distinguish between bullying and teasing/hazing behaviors.
*Students will recognize the role of organizational culture in fostering or preventing
bullying.
Discussion Guide
Case Study 6.3
Declaring War on Sexual Assault in the Military
Case Synopsis and Analysis
Far too many military women experience sexual violence at the hands of their male colleagues.
Reports of sexual assault have risen dramatically and several high profile incidents suggest that
there is a sexual violence crisis in the armed services. Until recently the military justice system
offered little hope to female victims. Commanders often overruled the verdicts of military courts
and a number of offenders escaped punishment. The United States Senate passed legislation
reforming the military justice system. However, senators were divided over whether
commanders should be totally removed from sexual assault cases.
The male dominated military is particularly prone to this type of aggression and the response of
the military justice system illustrates the barriers facing women assault victims. Reformers
agreed on the problem but not on the solution.
Learning Objectives
*Students will identify factors that make organizational cultures prone to sexual
violence.
Johnson, Organizational Ethics 3e, © 2015 – Instructor Resources
*Students will determine if commanders should continue to be involved in
military assault cases.
*Students will identify further steps that the military and other organizations can
take to reduce sexual violence.
Discussion Guide
