TEACHING ETHICS THROUGHOUT THE CURRICULUM

Case 29. Payment for Use of Name and Reputation

Situation

Payment for Use of Name and Reputation
Professor Irvin Jones, a nationally reputed expert in measurement, agrees to have his name used to endorse a book which guarantee students successful scores passes on advanced graduate placement exams. He will receive a fee for the use of his name.

Questions

l.    Is this a question of "ethical behavior" on the part of Professor Jones ?
2.    What are Professor Jones' obligations as a sociologist to verify that the work to which he is lending his reputation and expertise are not misleading?
3.    Does it make a difference if Professor Jones was reimbursed or not for his endorsement?




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