Question

Identify the examples as ethical or unethical behavior.

A large pharmaceutical company is being paid a lot of money to develop a new drug. However, when the drug was tested, it was proven to have major side effects that are dangerous for patients. The company decided to produce the drugs anyway in order to make money.

Harper works at a public health clinic that distributes some free healthcare products such as toothbrushes and bandages to community members who cannot otherwise afford them. Harper realizes that he needs a new toothbrush at home, and does not feel like spending money on one at the store so he takes a toothbrush from the donation box.

Answer 1

1) Pharmaceutical company producing and selling a drug known to have major dangerous side effects to make money — Unethical.
- It knowingly puts patients at risk, violates duties of nonmaleficence (do no harm) and beneficence, and abuses public trust and professional/legal responsibilities.
- Ethical alternatives: halt production, disclose risks, conduct further testing, seek regulatory approval only if benefits clearly outweigh risks, or recall and compensate affected patients.

2) Harper taking a donated toothbrush intended for needy patients because he doesn’t want to buy one — Unethical.
- It’s misuse/theft of resources meant for people who cannot afford them, undermines the program’s purpose and trust in the clinic.
- Ethical alternatives: buy a toothbrush, ask the clinic if extras are available for staff, or donate/replace the taken item if he uses it.