Student Resource
Johnson, Organizational Ethics, 5e
SAGE Publications, 2022
Case Notes
Chapter 1: Ethical Competencies and Perspectives
Case Study 1.1: Facial Recognition Technology: A Tool for Public Safety or
Oppression?
Case Synopsis and Analysis
Facial recognition technology enables law enforcement officials to identify suspects by
comparing images from photos or video to pictures from drivers’ licenses, mugshots, and other
government databases. Police departments use the technology to solve crimes and border patrol
agents employ the software to identify those entering the country illegally. However, facial
Learning Objectives
• Students will recognize utilitarian reasoning used in a real-world case.
• Students will identify the costs and benefits of facial recognition technology.
Student Resource
Johnson, Organizational Ethics, 5e
SAGE Publications, 2022
Discussion Guide
As a group, create a list of the costs and benefits of the use of facial recognition in law
enforcement. Then ask students to determine whether they think the benefits outweigh the costs
Case Study 1.2: Pets on Planes
Case Synopsis and Analysis
More Americans are bringing creatures of all kinds on airplanes, claiming that they are either
service animals trained to do tasks for the disabled or emotional support animals that provide
help with mental distress. Dishonest pet owners take advantage of federal regulations by buying
Learning Objectives
• Students will recognize the consequences of violating Kant’s Categorical Imperative.
Student Resource
Johnson, Organizational Ethics, 5e
Discussion Guide
Class members may have encountered animals while flying. Have them describe those
encounters. Discuss possible penalties for bringing sham service and support animals on board as
well as additional limitations on allowing animals in passenger cabins. Highlight the fact that
Case Study 1.3: Entering Through the Side Door: The College Admissions Bribery
Scandal
Case Summary and Synopsis
Wealthy parents paid college admissions consultant William Singer to ensure that their children
were admitted to prestigious schools. Singer falsified the test scores of some applicants. In other
cases, he bribed coaches to secure spots for applicants who wouldn’t otherwise qualify for
Student Resource
Johnson, Organizational Ethics, 5e
SAGE Publications, 2022
institutions continue to reserve admissions slots for children of alumni and guarantee admission
for the children of large donors.
Learning Objectives
• Students will evaluate the fairness of the college admissions process.
Discussion Guide
This case should spark lively discussion since students have first-hand experience with the
college admissions process. They may have strong feelings about the college admissions system
as well as admissions at their own school. (Take special care in guiding the discussion if your