Yahoo! And The Chinese Dissidents: A Case Study Of Trust, Values, And Clashing Cultures

Abstract

This case involves the global business ethics of two distinctly different cultures whose definition of human rights is embedded within their differing historical traditions. The Constitution of the United States guarantees individual rights for each of its citizens, including free speech and the right to petition the government. The People’s Republic of China traces its roots to the ancient tradition of Confucius and the Mandate of Heaven that advocated the Emperor’s responsibility to provide economic justice to instill social harmony. This perspective is echoed by the Communist’s party of the PRC with its insistence on the prohibition of public dissent.  How then should an American firm address these issues while remaining competitive in the global arena and should they be held responsible for abiding to foreign law? This case presents the ethical dilemma faced by democratic multinationals conducting business globally.