Discussion Post: Sales Ethics
Let's explore the ethics of sales a little, starting with the sale of real estate. Are the techniques demonstrated in Case 6.4 "Closing the Deal" legitimate? Or is the use of fake conversation and other psychological maneuvers unethical? In the recent best selling book and movie, Freakonomics, the authors reveal how real-estate agents can be strongly motivated to under-sell your property. It is because lower commissions on a large number of underpriced houses is much better than fewer commissions on normally priced property. Does this possibly touch any nerves? Consider the major theories we learned early in the course, especially Kant's theory of ethics and Mill's theory of rule utilitarianism. What do you think? Do aggressive sales tactics hold up to ethical scrutiny? Feel free to bring in your own experiences and examples.
The response must include a reference list. Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, double-space, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.