by Malcolm Crawford

Electronics/Pre Engineering

An electric generator, which you have always wanted for your mountain cabin, is found at a second-hand store. The price is so low that you cannot believe that it is correct. The proprietor verifies the price. You also note that it has been repainted. You conclude that either:

1. The generator is stolen goods.

2. It has been mispriced.

3. It is a really good bargain.

Questions:

Which of the following courses of action would you choose?

1. Call the police immediately

2. Ask pointed questions about where it came from.

3. Insist on buying it, but pay more for it.

4. Check with the police for descriptions of stolen generators.

Some ethical questions:

Is it ethical to take advantage of a pricing error?

Is it ethical to purchase something which may be stolen without checking first?

If the generator was stolen, do we have an ethical obligation to notify the authorities?