Unethical Marketing Tactics of Manufacturers: An Investigation of Corporate Social Responsibility and Legal Responses to Death & Mayhem
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33423/jmdc.v17i2.6284Keywords:
marketing, development, unethical marketing tactics, unethical corporate conduct, corporate social responsibility, gun laws, Johnson & Johnson lawsuit, Remington Arms lawsuit, Juul Labs, Juul Labs settlement, NRA, national rifle association, federal gun control laws, vaping companies, Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act, RJ Reynolds, Joe Camel Cool, CSR pyramid, CSR, ethics, corporate ethics, deceptive marketing, ethical dilemmaAbstract
Every business faces ethical decisions and dilemmas as part of their daily operations. Managers must decide what level of corporate social responsibility to uphold, while maintaining profits. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) should begin with promoting well-being; decision-making strategies can produce profits without endangering the welfare of a business’s customer base. This article examines the CSR and unethical marketing strategies pursued by Juul Labs, Remington Arms, Johnson & Johnson and RJ Reynolds corporation and the legal responses—or lack thereof--by courts and legislatures to the resulting harm and death to their customers. An overview of pertinent laws, court decisions and settlements are provided. Techniques for incorporating CSR into every campaign, as well as managerial tactics for handling ethical dilemmas are offered. A thorough discussion for small businesses owners regarding CSR, ethical marketing strategies and how to move forward to make a positive impact for change is presented.
