Class Action is a movie that came out in 1991, find a copy of it or figure out how to access it. Watch this film and answer the following questions:
1. Describe each of the following ethical theories: Egoism, Utilitarianism, Kantian Ethics, and Virtue Ethics.
2. How and why did Argo decide to produce the Meridian knowing of the defect? Which ethical theory (or theories) best fits their rationale? Why?
3. How would you characterize the manner in which Dr. Pavel's notes were dealt with by Maggie's firm from a Kantian, or Virtue Ethic perspective?
How do you suppose they could justify their decision to destroy the notes?
4. Describe the ethical climate/corporate culture of Maggie's firm, Jed's firm, and Argo and how it influenced their pursuit of justice in this case.
5. What was the primary goal of each of the three firms - profit or justice?
6. What do you think of Maggie's treatment of Dr. Pavel when he was on the witness stand from a Kantian point of view? Was she justified in doing what she did?
7. Did Dr. Pavel do his duty in this case when he was an employee of Argo Motors or
should he have "blown the whistle" on the Meridian? Why or why not?
8. Was Maggie justified in giving her father the name of the "bean counter" (Anthony Patricola) near the end of the movie when she realized that her firm destroyed evidence? Why or why not? Remember that she betrayed her firm and risked her career! Was justice served by her action? What would you have done if you were her?
9. If Argo Motor had practiced Kantian, Rawlsian Ethics, or Virtue Ethics, how would Argohave handled the development and distribution of the Meridian? Describe how each ethical theory would have impacted the case.