Ethics of Dell

Dell is a corporation that exists to generate profits and the article relating carbon neutrality as well as the class video regarding computer disposal demonstrate this concept firsthand. This poses a question of ethics because the motives behind Dell’s actions are different than what they try and portray to the public. Dell claims to be carbon neutral, but this idea is almost impossible to obtain and by claiming to be carbon neutral Dell appeases to a broader base of consumers, and thus generates greater profits. They are only claiming to be carbon neutral for monetary reasons, not moral reasons. This difference is not a huge ethical problem, but it is one because it shows how Dell tries to mislead consumers for their benefit and progress. The video demonstrates this problem to a greater extent because it is direct exploitation, as opposed to indirect exploitation. Computers that are out of use are shipped to third world countries where they are broken down and dissected for useful parts. On the surface this seems like a good or smart idea because computer manufacturers are trying to maximize the usage out of a computer. The problem arises because of the hazardous effects this process has on the individual workers and subsequently the surrounding community. Computers contain many toxic compounds and elements and when dissected an individual becomes directly exposed to these toxins and will be subjected to the maladies they cause. These toxins also go further as demonstrated by the video specifically in relation to surrounding communities. When these computers are broken down they are left in a pile and rain causes these chemicals to be absorbed into the soil and after sufficient time the water supply as well. These concerns prove that Dell as well as any other company for that matter should be viewed with skepticism when they claim to be something, because in actuality they only to do so to generate greater profits and thus the ethical problem arises.