Business Ethics

Michael took his 12-year-old son to his jewelry store one school holiday, thinking it was time the young man learned a little about the business. He showed him diamonds, emeralds, watches, bracelets, the working of the cash register, and the proper attitude toward customers. The son absorbed it all.

That afternoon, a fellow came in who exhibited interest in a $70 ring, which he wound up purchasing for cash. But the customer unwittingly gave Michael two one-hundred-dollar bills stuck together, which Michael realized only after the customer had just departed the store with his change and purchase.

"Well, now you can learn another lesson. You can learn about business ethics," Michael expounded to his son.

"You mean, do you chase after that man and give him his other hundred-dollar bill back?" the son asked.

"No," replied the dad, pocketing the hundred. "I mean, do I tell my partner?"