Student Resource
Johnson, Organizational Ethics, 5e
SAGE Publications, 2022
Case Notes
Chapter 8: Improving Group Ethical Performance
Case Study 8.1: From “Dream Team” to Nightmare
Case Synopsis and Analysis
The Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League put together an impressive roster of
well-known football players in 2011, determined to win their first championship since 1960.
Signing so many star players created a frenzy of excitement before the season began,
Following two unsuccessful seasons, the “Dream Team” was disbanded. Players were
released or traded and the long-time head coach was fired. A team with great potential on paper
failed to live up to its billing, and the Eagles entered a rebuilding period.
Learning Objectives
• Students will analyze the role of team chemistry in group formation and performance.
Discussion Guide
Student Resource
Johnson, Organizational Ethics, 5e
SAGE Publications, 2022
This case provides an opportunity for students to discuss individual responsibility in creating
team chemistry and success, as the Eagles demonstrate what happens when members fail to
cooperate, to do their fair share or to support one another. While confidence is an important
factor for organizational success, it cannot take the place of adequate planning, hard work, and
Case Study 8.2: Navy SEALs: Breaking the Code of Silence
Case Synopsis and Analysis
Recent scandals have tarnished the image of Navy SEALs as American heroes. Members of this
highly selective fighting group have been accused of murder, sexual assault, drinking on the job,
Observers blame the scandals on several factors, including long deployments, arrogance,
and SEALS out to cash in on their fame. Reforming the SEALs ethical culture will prove
Student Resource
Johnson, Organizational Ethics, 5e
SAGE Publications, 2022
difficult. Those who speak up about misconduct face retaliation for breaking the SEAL
brotherhood’s code of silence. They could jeopardize their careers and be branded as traitors.
Learning Objectives
• Students will identify factors contributing to the ethical breakdown in SEAL units.
Discussion Guide
Examine the factors that may have led to the ethical breakdowns. In particular, some SEALS
want to benefit from their service though they pledged not to seek recognition. As a class,
speculate as to why SEALs now focus on individual achievement instead of group achievement.
Point out the encouraging members to stand alone is important for all groups, not just for groups
Student Resource
Johnson, Organizational Ethics, 5e
SAGE Publications, 2022
Case Study 8.3: To Loan or Not to Loan?
Case Synopsis and Analysis
Bank loan officer Harry Edwards must decide whether to loan an additional US$200,000 to a
local grocery store for a renovation. The storeowners, who are behind on their payments on the
initial US$600,000 loan, are convinced that the additional money will ensure completion of the
Edwards and the bank are in danger of following victim to the escalation of commitment.
Bank officers will lose their initial investment if the store doesn’t finish its renovation. They are
Learning Objectives
• Students will identify factors leading to escalation of commitment.
• Students will determine if additional funding is justified and defend their stance.
Discussion Guide
There is no right or wrong answer to this dilemma. The bank could suffer if it doesn’t make the
loan. The grocery will probably fail and the bank will be out its original US$600,000 investment.
Student Resource
Johnson, Organizational Ethics, 5e
SAGE Publications, 2022