Part A
Utilitarianism
When applying the consequentialist theory of Utilitarianism to Tom’s decision on whether to falsify information on his resume I have found exaggerating details on his resume be unethical.

The table on the following page analyses the benefits and harms of each course of action for Tom. With a higher overall number of harms and lower overall number of benefits from falsifying information than if he is honest. In line with utilitarian theories when looking at the wellbeing of all stakeholders the ‘greatest good’ comes from Tom being honest. If Tom is to exaggerate the details of his employment he could cause a likely negative impact on all stakeholders from his family to his possible future supervisor and peers while only providing an uncertain benefit for himself and others. Being honest may reduce his chances in securing employment but will provide a bigger possible benefit to all stakeholders overall regardless of success or failure in securing employment.

Tom ought to be honest in his work history; as the requirement of previous experience is only desirable he is still has a chance at securing employment, and will be fairer on all applicants, the hiring company and it’s employees thus providing the greatest good for the greatest number of people.

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Stakeholders Lie - Harms Lie - Benefits Truth – Harms Truth - Benefits
Tom – employment could be halted due to misleading information
– if unable to secure employment confidence for future opportunities diminishes – may secure employment
– may be able to assist family in financial situation
– may be able to start paying HECs debt – may not secure any employment
– may not be able to assist family in financial situation – reputation intact
Other Applicants – qualified applicants may not secure employment – more qualified applicants may secure employment
Hiring Company