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The Ethics of the Wal-Mart Model

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The Ethics of the Wal-Mart Model There are many opinions on the ethics of the Wal-Mart model, both favourable and unfavourable. The article “ROB Ranks Wal-Mart Among Canada’s Best Employers” (McLachlan, 2009, pg. 287) offers a favourable viewpoint of the model, and the article “The Cost of Walmartization” (McLachlan, 2009, pg. 288) offers an opposing unfavourable view. This paper discusses the theoretical approaches used in each article, along with the supporting evidence that was used in an effort to be convincing.

“ROB Ranks Wal-Mart Among Canada’s Best Employers”
This article celebrates Wal-Mart being rated by ‘Report on Business Magazine’ among the top employers in Canada. The author uses a teleological approach in describing Wal-Mart’s pursuit of their number one goal which is supported by the quote made by Vice President, Mary Alice Vuicic, “...our number one corporate goal has been to become Canada’s favourite place to work”. (McLachlan, 2009, pg. 287) Ms. Vuicic further implies that rather than simply meeting this goal to a satisfactory degree, their ultimate goal is maximization. In other words, there is no limit to becoming the top employer in Canada and this is evidenced by her quote, “...It’s an ongoing process...The best-employer lists recognize we’ve got a great foundation in place to meet our goal.” (McLachlan, 2009, pg. 287)

Another approach used by the author is based on deontology – treating people as ends, not means. The article describes Wal-Mart’s positive work in treating people fairly and equally, and Wal-Mart’s behaviour of promoting existing staff to senior roles. This describes Kant’s categorical imperative because it recognizes the value of employees and the fact that they have “goals worthy of consideration and respect.” (McLachlan, 2009, pg. 74) To further support equality and justice for all, the author uses a

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