Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Business Research:
A Case Study Analysis
Course: MGT 2700 - Business Research Method
Instructor: Ian Chitwood
Submitted by Nkechi Agu
February 1, 2024
Table of Contents
1
1.1
Introduction ................................................................................................................... 3
Ethical Principles in Research ...................................................................................... 3
2
Case Study Analysis: The Olivieri Case............................................................................. 4
3
Ethical Decision-Making ................................................................................................. 5
4
Critical Reflection ........................................................................................................... 5
5
Report Summary ............................................................................................................ 6
References ............................................................................................................................ 7
Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Business Research: A Case Study Analysis
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1
Introduction
This paper aims to dissect the multifaceted ethical dilemmas inherent in business research, guided by a
detailed analysis of the Olivieri case. The case underpins the complex interplay between ethical principles
and business research, emphasizing the importance of ethical decision-making and integrity in academic
endeavors.
This paper delves into the ethical complexities inherent in business research, as shown through the Olivieri
case. This case serves as an example, widely referenced by many to date, of the intricate challenges faced
by researchers in balancing scientific and personal integrity with that of the business and their commercial
interests. It demonstrates how ethical principles are not just theoretical constructs but are vitally relevant
in real-world scenarios. Using the theoretical framework provided in the course, including concepts from
prominent scholars like Emanuel et al. 2000 on ethical research conduct, and drawing upon peer-reviewed
articles and journals, this analysis endeavours to extract key lessons from the Olivieri case. This case
encapsulates the tension between the pursuit of scientific truth and the influence of external funding,
highlighting the crucial role of ethical decision-making and integrity in academic research. The paper aims
to not only dissect these dilemmas but also to synthesize the learnings into actionable insights for future
researchers, fostering an environment where ethical considerations are at the forefront of academic
inquiry.
1.1 Ethical Principles in Research
In business research, ethical principles are foundational. As defined by (Mary Uhl-Bien et al., 2023), ethics
are standards of behaviour that help us decide how we ought to act in a range of situations. This is inherent
in our personal and professional life. We all have that line that we cannot cross, known as the ethical line
(Mary Uhl-Bien et al., 2023) We all have different motivations for making decisions whether ethical or not,
as well as reasons for or rationalizing bad behaviour. For Business Ethics, it simply means behaviour that
is consistent with the principles, norms and standards of business practice as agreed by society standards
(Mary Uhl-Bien et al., 2023). Ethical principles in research, defined by the Belmont Report, are
fundamental guidelines that ensure the integrity and ethical conduct of research involving human
subjects. These principles include respect for persons, treating individuals with autonomy and protecting
Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Business Research: A Case Study Analysis
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those with diminished autonomy; beneficence, the obligation to minimize harm and maximize benefits;
and justice, the equitable distribution of research benefits and burdens (Protections (OHRP), 2010).
In the Olivieri case, these principles are pivotal in understanding the ethical dilemmas encountered when
research findings, potentially harmful to participants, conflict with the interests of external sponsors. The
case underscores the necessity of adhering to these ethical guidelines to safeguard participant welfare
and maintain the credibility of the research process.
For a deeper understanding of these principles and their application in research ethics, (Emanuel, E. J. et
al., 2000), provide an extensive discussion on what makes clinical research ethical, emphasizing the
importance of informed consent, risk-benefit assessment, and equitable participant selection.
Respecting participants, ensuring beneficence, upholding justice, and maintaining integrity are nonnegotiable pillars (Creswell, 2009). These principles serve as a compass, guiding researchers through the
moral complexities of their work. For instance, respect for participants demands informed consent and
confidentiality, whereas beneficence involves protecting participants from harm (David B. Resnik, 2011)
2
Case Study Analysis: The Olivieri Case
The Olivieri case brings to the forefront, the clash between commercial interests and research ethics.
Olivieri's discovery of Deferiprone's adverse effects created a conflict with Apotex, highlighting the ethical
dilemmas around participant safety and research integrity. An ethical dilemma is a situation that requires
a person to violate or compromise ethical standards (Mary Uhl-Bien et al., 2023). The case illustrates the
tension between corporate sponsorship and the sanctity of unbiased research. Ethical principles, such as
beneficence and integrity, were at risk as commercial interests overshadowed patient safety and
transparent communication (Emanuel, E. J. et al., 2000).
The Olivieri case presents a compelling study of ethics in clinical research. Dr. Nancy Olivieri, working at
the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, faced an ethical dilemma when her research indicated serious
risks associated with a drug developed by Apotex Inc. Despite a contractual agreement with confidentiality
clauses, she felt a moral obligation to inform the participants and the scientific community of the risks,
Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Business Research: A Case Study Analysis
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which conflicted with the interests of Apotex. The ethical principles at stake included patient safety, the
integrity of the research, and the researcher's duty to communicate findings truthfully, regardless of
commercial interests. Olivieri's decisions and the subsequent fallout highlight the complexity and
importance of ethical conduct in research. The potential consequences of her actions include legal
challenges, damage to her reputation, and broader implications for public trust in research. This analysis
draws on the ethical standards outlined in the Belmont Report Protections (OHRP), (2010), and the
professional guidelines discussed by Emanuel, E. J. et al., (2000), emphasizing the researcher's
responsibility to prioritize participant welfare over contractual obligations.
3
Ethical Decision-Making
If faced with a similar scenario, an ethical decision-making process would involve prioritizing participant
safety and research integrity over commercial interests. Regulations such as institutional review board
approvals and guidelines for conflict of interest should be stringently followed. The decision-making
process would hinge on ethical frameworks like Beauchamp and Childress's Four Principles (autonomy,
beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice), ensuring a balanced approach to ethical challenges
(Beauchamp et al., 2013). In ethical decision-making, particularly in a context similar to the Olivieri case,
one would need to employ a framework that includes an assessment of risks and benefits, the duty to
warn, confidentiality, and the obligation to act in the best interest of the participants and the scientific
community. This approach would be guided by the Belmont Report's principles of respect, beneficence,
and justice (Protections (OHRP), 2010). Additionally, one would need to adhere to the Declaration of
Helsinki, which sets out ethical principles for research involving human subjects, including considerations
for patient safety and the right to privacy by (Helsinki, 2013). A researcher would need to navigate the
balance between contractual obligations and the duty to inform, guided by professional integrity and the
potential impact on public trust in research. The decisions would be justified by the paramount need to
prioritize the welfare of research participants, even when faced with institutional pressures or potential
legal repercussions.
4
Critical Reflection
Analyzing this case underscored the complexity of ethical decision-making in research. Conflicting
viewpoints between commercial interests and ethical obligations revealed the need for a robust ethical
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framework and regulatory oversight in research. The analysis led to a deeper appreciation of the ethical
nuances in academic research and the imperative to maintain integrity even in the face of formidable
challenges. Reflecting on the Olivieri case analysis, the process of ethical reasoning was both challenging
and enlightening. One of the key challenges was reconciling the obligation to honor confidentiality
agreements with the moral imperative to warn participants and the scientific community about potential
risks. The conflict between contractual fidelity and public safety epitomizes the ethical quandaries that
researchers may face. Ethical reasoning, grounded in moral philosophy and bioethical principles, such as
those proposed by Beauchamp et al., (2013), provided a structured approach to navigate these conflicts.
Personal motivation to uphold the sanctity of scientific integrity and protect human life guided the
resolution process, reinforcing the belief that ethical lines should not be crossed, even under immense
external pressure.
5
Report Summary
The Olivieri case underscores the paramount importance of ethics in business research. It highlights the
need for researchers to navigate ethical dilemmas with a clear commitment to integrity, participant
safety, and the truth. Ethical decision-making in research is not merely a procedural obligation but a moral
imperative to uphold the values of scientific inquiry.
In summary, the ethical decision-making model applied to the Olivieri case required a careful evaluation
of ethical principles and relevant regulations. It was evident that the welfare of participants and the
integrity of the scientific process should guide actions, even when they contradict commercial interests
or contractual obligations. The critical reflection underscored the importance of a strong ethical compass
in resolving the tension between competing values. This analysis was supported by the ethical frameworks
and guidelines that prioritize human welfare and the advancement of scientific knowledge.
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References
Beauchamp, T. L., Childress, J. F., & Oxford University Press. (2013). Principles of biomedical ethics (7th
ed). Oxford University Press New York; WorldCat.
Creswell, J. W. (2009). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches (3rd
ed). Sage Publications.
David B. Resnik. (2011). What Is Ethics in Research & Why Is It Important? [Research Institute]. National
Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/research/resources/bioethics/whatis
Emanuel, E. J., Wendler. D, & Grady, C. (2000). What Makes Clinical Research Ethical? | Research,
Methods, Statistics | JAMA | JAMA Network. Jama Network.
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/192740
Helsinki. (2013). World Medical Association Declaration of Helsinki: Ethical Principles for Medical
Research Involving Human Subjects | Research, Methods, Statistics | JAMA | JAMA Network.
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/1760318
Mary Uhl-Bien, Ronaldo F. Piccolo, & John R. Schermerhorn, JR. (2023). Organizational Behavior [WileyPlus, Inovative research-based, online environment]. Www.Wileyplus.Com.
https://read.willoreader.app/reader/index.html
Protections (OHRP), O. for H. R. (2010, January 28). The Belmont Report [Text].
https://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/regulations-and-policy/belmont-report/index.html
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