Utilitarianism, Employee Relations, and Workplace Wellbeing: A Study

This assignment examines the application of utilitarianism in the workplace, focusing on its influence on employee relations and the overall wellbeing of employees. The author highlights how the principles of utilitarianism, which aim to maximize happiness and benefit the greatest number of people, are reflected in workplace practices. The assignment provides examples of how employers can demonstrate utilitarianism, such as providing support during the COVID-19 pandemic through the provision of essential items and flexible work arrangements. It underscores the importance of respecting fundamental human rights, as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the negative consequences of disregarding employee wellbeing. The author's personal experience underscores the impact of utilitarian practices on employee motivation and satisfaction. The assignment also includes relevant references to support its arguments, including works on business ethics, theories of justice, and corporate social responsibility.

Although relationships at work places are premised on contractual agreements, elements of
friendship and emotional bonds inevitably develop out of these professional interactions
(Sharma,2013). Such interpersonal relations serve to support the social aspect of utilitarianism,
which essentially views humankind as a social being who seeks maximum happiness (Fist,
2019). The theory is hinged on consequentialism so that in order to maximize overall good then
the morally right action must be implemented. Utilitarianism promotes human rights through
prioritizing achievement of maximum happiness for humankind (Li,2019).
I have noted throughout my professional experience that utilitarianism is a very persuasive tool
in cultivating employer-employee relations. Presently due to the novel Covid-19 pandemic
employers in my workplace have implement various measures to support employees. This
includes donating products such as facemasks, toiletries and food. The employers have also
developed lenient work schedules while observing the safety standards imposed by the
government at the workplace. This is a clear-cut example of the application of utilitarianism as
well as respect and protection of the fundamental human right to life and the right to standard
healthcare as stipulated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (United Nations,1948, art.
25).I feel happy and motivated when my employers give regard to the general wellbeing of
employees. On the contrary I would feel exploited if my employers were to ignore my general
wellbeing at my workplace. Any disregard to the natural, immutable and inalienable rights in a
work place would be distasteful, repugnant, reprehensible and totally unacceptable.

REFERENCES
Fist, I. (2019). Business ethics: Utilitarianism, rights, justice, caring ad virtue theories. Retrieved
from https://ivypanda.com/essays/business-ethics-utilitarianism-rights-justice-caring-and-
virtue-theories/
Li,L.(2019).Theories of justice: Utilitarian theory. Retrieved from
https://ivypanda.com/essays/theories-of-justice-utilitarian-theory/
Sharma, Y. (2013). Role of corporate social responsibility in organization. IOSR Journal of
business and management,13. 01-08.
The United Nations (1948). Universal Declaration of Human Rights.