Week 3 Discussion
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted business operations for most companies in the world. However, despite downturns, some companies are still experiencing huge profits. Amazon is one such organization. Since the company has been making profits amid the ongoing pandemic, we can use the lenses of utilitarianism, libertarianism, and egalitarianism to look at how it may use its influence to either promote or disrupt fair business practices.
Under the practical theory, Amazon has largely been serving people who otherwise cannot access essential retail services. In this sense, customers’ welfare is addressed because they get to purchase goods remotely (Avcilar et al., 27). Therefore, they do not have to move physically. On the same note, the company has been pursuing its welfare in that it ensures that it earns profits from eh business transactions. From this viewpoint, the general well-being of all parties is taken care of.
Libertarianism applies in Amazon’s case in that due to its continued profit-making in the pandemic, liberties that promote a free market economy may be compromised. The company can exploit the monopoly and take advantage of consumers (Cox 724). It could also intimidate smaller businesses, especially the ones that have been adversely affected by the pandemic. This could lead to negative experiences for businesses and consumers.
Egalitarianism may also manifest itself in the case of Amazon. Notably, the concept entails equality for all people (Taro 374). Amazon may want to interfere with this concept regarding the freedom of businesses to operate freely in the market. With increased profits, the company may use its influence to lock out some competitors. It may also take advantage of customers by selling them overpriced or substandard items.
To summarize, Amazon can potentially use its influence to promote or disrupt fair business practices in the markets. We can use the lenses of utilitarianism, libertarianism, and egalitarianism to understand this phenomenon. Notably, Amazon is one of the few companies that have been making huge profits despite the adverse effects of COVID-19.