Case 6: Using Ex-Cons to Teach Business Ethics
1. What are the ethical issues in this case?
Should white-collar criminals profit from their crimes post-conviction? Should such criminals be
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universities pay ex-cons to tell their stories?
2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of hiring ex-cons to speak to college students on
the subject of business ethics? Is it appropriate for colleges and universities to pay felons to be
guest speakers?
often point out that discussing ethical dilemmas in a safe, low-pressure environment such as the
classroom is not realistic and far from ideal. Hearing an ex-con speak would force students to
3. What do you think you could learn from an ex-con speaking on business ethics?
4. Successful business executives who speak to students on the subject of business ethics typically
do not get paid. They do this as a service. Is it wrong to pay ex-cons to speak on their illicit
motives and activities?