Velasquez Chapter 7
Chapter Overview
In chapter 7, students will explore a variety of forms of discrimination and harassment occurring
in the professional world. Through critical readings and case studies, learners will encounter
multiple perspectives regarding workplace behaviors as well as legislative actions to protect
employees from ethical violations. Women and minority employees often face significant
disadvantages in the workplace as well as economic scenarios, and students will examine
In-and-Out of Class Activities
Reflective Response
1. Do you feel that socio-economic conditions for women in the U.S. workforce have improved
in recent years? To what extent do you feel the wage gap will continue to impact economic
stability in single-parent households? Use specific examples to support your perspectives.
2. After reviewing the details of Grutter v. Bollinger, discuss your perspective of this landmark
3. Discuss the similarities and differences between a rights-based argument against sexual
harassment and a justice-based argument against sexual harassment. Do you feel one ethical
methodology is more applicable than the other? Provide details examples to support your
perspective.
Group & Team Collaboration
1. Imagine that your team is hosting a human resource meeting to deliver key policy information
2. With your team, create a role-play scenario demonstrating a specific type of discrimination in
3. With your teams, investigate instances of discrimination against individuals with disabilities in
the U.S. workforce. Through online research, locate two to four court cases or news stories
Intellectual Discussion
1. Lecture Point: Affirmative Action
Questions to Ask Students: Discuss the benefits, as well as the disadvantages, of
affirmative action as it relates to the business world. Provide specific examples and
relevant ethical theories to support your ideas.
2. Lecture Point: Inclusion and equality
Questions to Ask Students: Discuss an example of the type of discrimination a
member of the LGBT community might face in the workplace or in the classroom.
From a philosophical perspective, discuss the importance of ensuring inclusion and
equality in our businesses and schools. Provide examples of relevant theories to
support your ideas.
Online Alternative: Locate a recent news article describing a specific example of
3. Lecture Point: Ageism in the workplace
Questions to Ask Students: Discuss your perspectives on the implications of the Age
Discrimination in Employment Act. Which philosopher’s ideas of moral reasoning
do you feel align most closely to this piece of legislation? Use specific examples to
support your thoughts.