Abstract:

One of the unintended consequences of globalization is the multi-polarization of views pertaining to the interdependency between state politics and business. Because business internalization requires compliance with state policies, some business leaders make concessions contradictory to the values and beliefs of their company. With expanding global concerns in relation to forced labour, environmental pollution, and gender inequality, circumventing human rights challenges poses a huge problem for business leaders looking to maintain cohesive government relations. The dilemma becomes: should business leaders dismiss ethics in favour of company profitability? Using Apple CEO Tim Cook as a case study, this paper seeks to address this question elaborating on the disastrous effect of Cook’s produce or perish leadership style in certain cultures.