Abstract
The concept of ethics in the high consumption society is and will be always a source of debate. Every year, Medias reveal brand names which apply unethical practices. Everybody remembers the Nike scandal, world leader of the sport industry, in 1992, regarding child labor in China, Asia and Latin America. In 2007, it is the same official report for GAP and Adidas, clothing retailers, which exploit their workers (low pay, long hours or poor working environment). That is why the government has to regulate company behavior in order to protect the workforce along with the consumer.
How do governments and organizations protect the rights and interests of consumers? What is the role of ethics in consumer choices? To answer these questions, we are going to describe business ethics and consumer organizations. Then, we will study the role of ethics in organizational consumer policy and consumer choice. Finally, we will evaluate the position of government in consumer policy.
