TEACHING ETHICS THROUGHOUT THE CURRICULUM

Case 24. Avoidance of Personal Gain

Situation

Avoidance of Personal Gain
Hook, Line, and Sinker, a prominent law firm, hires Christina Benning as a consultant in jury selection for the upcoming trial of a wealthy businessman accused of murdering his wife. Dr. Benning constructs a model for predicting decision-making injuries. The businessman is acquitted despite overwhelming evidence of guilt. Because of the trial's potent publicity and startling outcome, Dr. Benning is offered an advance of five million dollars from a major commercial press to expose her role in the defense's strategy for the case.

Questions

1. Should Dr. Benning accept the offer?

Reflect on the above questions and form your own answers before clicking the Dicussion key to review the commentary provided with this case.