DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
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6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 1/23
This is a graded discussion: 25 points possible due Jun 12
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Recently, social media companies have been under attack by the advertisers, media, and the public over controversial material posted on their websites. The authors of the questionable articles argue that they are just using persuasive writing covered by the First Amendment of the U.S. constitution. Critics argue that their postings are inciting hatred and violence, which is not covered by the First Amendment.
Suppose that your employer asked you to write a persuasive article for publication that included information that made you feel uncomfortable. How would you handle this situation? Who would you go to ask for advice, if anyone? How would you confront your employer about your feelings? Do you know anyone that has encountered this situation?
Submit your response (in APA format for any references used) – 15pts.
Reply to two (2) other posted responses for full points – 5pts. + 5pts. for each reply.
Total possible points = 25
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(https:// Joy Everson (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4253321) Tuesday
If my employer asked me to write a persuasive article for publication that included information that made me feel uncomfortable, I would first take some time to myself to really understand what is being asked of me and document it (Boogaard, 2020). After all, it really depends on what specifically I'm being asked to do. If I am being asked to write something that I simply don't agree with, then so be it. I won't enjoy it, but I'll still do it. However, if I'm being asked to write something that can cause significant damage (for example if it involves prejudice or misinformation that could harm others), then I will try my best to document the incident and ask someone with legal knowledge what they recommend. Ultimately, I may just talk to my employer and ask if there's any way I can be assigned a different topic. After all, there's no harm in asking; the worst my employer can
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 2/23
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say is no. I would explain how and why the topic makes me uncomfortable and ask what the purpose of this article is; if the goal can be achieved through a different means, then that would be preferable. If there is no way around it and my employer says I must write this article for my job, I would talk to my fiancé. He majored in communications and is the most diplomatic person I've ever met. I'd ask him what he recommends I do, and, if writing the article is the best course of action, how to word it in a way that would be the least problematic. And of course, if what I'm being asked to do is dangerous or unethical, then I will quit (and sue depending on what the legal advisor recommends).
References:
Boogaard, K. (2020, June 19). This Is the Best Way to React to a Request From Your Boss That Makes You Feel Uneasy. The Muse. https://www.themuse.com/advice/this-is-the-best- way-to-react-to-a-request-from-your-boss-that-makes-you-feel-uneasy
(http Andreah Cruz (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4474232) Tuesday
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Hello Joy!
I agree with what you wrote. There are different measures on what people's limits are but in the end, it's up to us to really decide what's unethical. I'm assuming both of our tolerances are pretty high, so for an employer to choose a sensitive topic that we are uncomfortable with, they would have to choose a pretty bad one. At that point I wouldn't even think about writing it in the least problematic way, I would just quit and turn to social media and they can probably do something about the company. I would post something along the lines of how they tried to make me write such an unethical article and points of why I think it's problematic. Social media can have a big impact on shutting down a business and you may be able to run across someone who would want to hire you for your ethics or standards.
(http Joy Everson (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4253321) Tuesday
That's very true! Social media is powerful. Also, if a business is big, there could be a human resources department that would provide protection to workers from wild business demands. By the way, when I talked about writing the article in the least problematic way, I'm referring to the way politicians sometimes speak. Answering questions without really answering questions. Saying things that form sentences but lack meaning. After all, if I absolutely need the job to pay for my child's life
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 3/23
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saving surgery, then I will take on the assignment. My family is everything to me. Moreover, even if I agree to writing the article, I don't have to agree to make it a good one. Fine print and inexplicit implications go both ways. But you are right that my tolerance is pretty high. I can write on very controversial topics, but I always try to stay professional. If my employer specifically asks me not to be professional and write something that will bring about catastrophe, then I will quit. Or turn it into satire and then quit. At the end of the day, I don't want my intellect to be used as a tool for harm.
(http Xinyuan Zhou (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4371290) Thursday
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I agree with you that we should refuse what is being asked to do is immoral and illegal. If I was the only one who was uncomfortable with the article and there is no other solution, I would probably have finished the article anyway. After all, as an employee, we are supposed to do what an employee does。
(https:// Andreah Cruz (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4474232) Tuesday
I believe the one person most popular for using their “First Amendment'' usage would be Donald Trump’s tweets. People on his side could say that he was just defending himself, but others would say that he’s inciting violence against the capital (Cineas, 2020, para. 8). What I’m trying to say is that there are levels and opinions on what you feel is going to entice hatred and violence. If I had a job that would make me write things I’m “uncomfortable” with, they would have to choose a topic that’s really high up there on the scale since I believe I have a pretty high tolerance for sensitive topics. For example, if I had to write why abortion should be banned I would be able to, even though I don’t fully agree with it. However, if I needed to write about why we should start forming hate crimes against Asians because everyone believes it’s our fault that COVID happened, that’s where I draw the line (Sprunt, 2021). I guess you can say that it starts getting uncomfortable for me when someone gets mentally or physically hurt. I would handle this situation by respectfully declining and telling them in a professional manner how hurtful it would be for me to write it. If they disagree with the points I made, then I’ll respect their opinion, and try to leave the workplace. If I can’t leave, I would ask advice from a fellow senior in my workplace or friends. I don’t know anyone who has encountered this situation, but I imagine how tough it would feel if someone felt uncomfortable doing their job and they can’t leave. With the
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 4/23
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limited job options that actually satisfy people’s needs, many are either forced to stay at their current job or not work at all (Morath, 2021, para. 3).
References:
1. Cineas, F. (2020, October 9). Donald Trump is the accelerant. https://www.vox.com/21506029/trump-violence-tweets-racist-hate-speech.
2. Morath, E. (2021, May 6). Millions Are Unemployed. Why Can't Companies Find Workers? https://www.wsj.com/articles/millions-are-unemployed-why-cant-companies- find-workers-11620302440.
3. Sprunt, B. (2021, May 20). Here's What The New Hate Crimes Law Aims To Do As Attacks On Asian Americans Rise. https://www.npr.org/2021/05/20/998599775/biden-to- sign-the-covid-19-hate-crimes-bill-as-anti-asian-american-attacks-rise.
(http Joy Everson (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4253321) Tuesday
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I agree, one must weigh the pros and cons. It's not necessarily ethical, but if a person needs a job to feed their family or even more so to pay someone's medical bills then they may choose to do what isn't ethical in order to care for themselves or their loved ones. It's unfortunate, but people will prioritize their survival (and I don't think they should necessarily be judged for that depending on the situation). I agree with you that the general line can be drawn where people actually get hurt. I also have experienced some discrimination since the pandemic due to my heritage, so I agree that words need to be used careful as to not incite hatred or even violence. At the same time, I definitely feel for people during the pandemic who have been pushed to do unethical things in order to feed themselves. The world can be very harsh sometimes. Ultimately, I just try to use my best judgement and suggest others do the same. By the way, I think it was a good idea that you listed -to go to other people in the company to ask for advice-, but I'd also recommend caution as that could create workplace conflict. There are so many nuances that I think it's difficult to have a blanket solution. It's good to know that you would do your best not to participate in anything that could cause harm though. There are many people who would take the easy way out and not think twice about harming their fellow citizens. It's quite sad, honestly. One can only hope that each generation is more compassionate and open minded than the previous, so that we might one day live in a more ideal society.
(http Yatning Tam Belmonte (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4487366) Thursday
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 5/23
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Hi Andreah, I enjoyed reading your post and I like your sense of humor and how you elaborate yourself. I had not thought about asking a senior employee and I think it's a great idea, since they must have encountered similar situations before and could provide valuable insights. And their suggestions could remain anonymous if they do not wish to be involved in the matter, which is understandable.
(https:// David Cortes (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4487092) Wednesday
Edited by David Cortes (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4487092) on Jun 12 at 4:38pm
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Personally, I have never been asked to write anything that included information that made me uncomfortable, nor have I known anyone who has been in that situation either. I think I would handle this situation depending on the level of severity of the unethical content. If the content is mildly uncomfortable, such as writing a persuasive article about something I disagree with, but not harmful in nature, then I would probably go along with it. However, if I am asked to publish something that could incite violence or hatred, then I would respectfully refuse to participate. I would simply tell my employer that I will not write this article and that would be the end of it. They can fire me if they want, but I have excused myself from work assignments in my current job and have never been fired. It might be a good idea to seek legal advice and learn what my legal rights are, as well as my employer's legal rights, in this situation. Additionally, if I feel that the content could be cause for imminent violence towards some people, then I might go even further and write a police report and possibly take legal action to prevent similar articles from being published. However, that would be an extreme case and I would hope that I would be smart enough to not work for someone who encourages any dangerous ideas in the first place.
(http Jimmy Phan (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4474356) Thursday
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Hi David,
I also agree that depending on the level severity of the unethical content is when you should fully be involved and bring your own opinion in the factor. I would also straight just refuse to participate with any further action they are taking and I would just straight up leave the company if HR is not doing anything. Rather than put a police report I believe you can sue them if you have evidence of them doing something unethical and try to find a lawyer to back up your solutions.
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 6/23
(http Olivia Sanchez (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4470677) Yesterday
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Hi David! I also thought about how the severity of the topic would affect my actions. It is best to logically lay out all of the effects the article could have on people, before a decision is made. If it comes down to it, I also wouldn't mind being fired or leaving the company. I would not want to work for a company who incites hatred and violence. If this is the case, then I hope the reasons for being fired or leaving the company will be understandable to future employers, or else again I wouldn't want to work for a company that doesn't support myself and my opinions.
(http Dang Minh Nhu Nguyen (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4487496) Yesterday
Edited by Dang Minh Nhu Nguyen (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4487496) on Jun 12 at 4pm
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Hi David,
I have never been requested to write such thing either, but I know it is quite common in the workspace. I agree with what you've said totally that we would write the article as long as it does not abuse violence and or hatred. I also love how you came up with the idea of reporting the case to the police if the topic violates the law heavily.
(https:// Nono Li (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4407359) Thursday
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I will either write the article my employer asks me to or quit the job. And I am aware of that whatever I do, I will take the responsibility and the consequences. I also need to divide the responsibility with my employer, because I am doing my job assigned from my employer, and I have the contract with the company. However, I have my right to refuse doing something that makes me uncomfortable and I have to take the consequence by myself, because of this, I would go to a lawyer ask for advice, to make sure that everything I do would be legally and not against my contract with my company, and make sure I will not miss any detail of labor arbitration. My feeling is not that important when I confront my employer, I should get some more evidence and truth to assume what is going to happen in the future and the consequence to convince my employer, and one of the most important things is the professional integrity.
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 7/23
(http Xinyuan Zhou (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4371290) Thursday
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Your opinions are very comprehensive, which reminds me that when we meet similar problems, the first person we should consult is a lawyer, and we can make a more sensible decision only after we understand the possible consequences.
(http Yatning Tam Belmonte (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4487366) Thursday
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Hi Nono, I like your decisiveness in your response, I myself have never been that in real life. I also agree that in situations like these one should not act emotionally but instead think more clearly about one's personal interest because there is no one else looking out for you.
(http Minh Le (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4371983) Thursday
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Hi Nono, I like how determined you are in your response. It like you are ready to take consequences of your action and you are not afraid to stand out. I didn't think about talking to a lawyer in this situation which is a really good idea for me because in this world where everything is base on contract and emotionless paper. I also like how you pointed out that when you confront your employer your feeling is not important rather than that it is better to get evidence and facts to prove your point.
(http Joy Everson (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4253321) Yesterday
Responsibility is huge. I didn't think about this, but some companies make unethical demands of employees in order to have them take the legal blame. Knowing your right to refuse or what resources are available to you is major and will help protect you in those uncomfortable situations. I definitely think consulting a lawyer is a good choice since they can alert you to legal ramifications you might not be aware of and what can be done to stop your employer if what they're asking of you is illegal. I also agree that maintaining professionalism is important; your feelings do matter though. Being respectful is a base expectation in the work force for that reason - to not unnecessarily
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 8/23
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upset or offend. Just as you respect your boss, your boss should respect you. STEM offers many jobs. It's always better to leave and find someplace you enjoy than slave away for the sake of security. There are always options in STEM.
(https:// Jimmy Phan (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4474356) Thursday
Edited by Jimmy Phan (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4474356) on Jun 10 at 1:10pm
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During this situation, I would try to evaluate the information given to me again and try to see if this information is more harmful to my reputation or the companies reputation. If I was really sensitive to the material that I am suppose to write about I would try to handle this by going directly to the employer and try to question the information. By questioning the information I can probably get a stronger understand of why its maybe controversial or if its harmful to us. I would confront the employer by being open as much as possible in order to understand what they are trying to do or make me do. From this if the solution does not go well I would try to ask if the article could be transfer to someone else. Otherwise, there would be a strong complaint to the employer and tried to argue why the article is offensive to certain audience. I would probably do more research in order to see why these information might be sensitive on the online platform and maybe if its violate certain laws or constitution. I also believe some information might be more opinionated compare to factual information. To certain extent I believe is when you should I either straight up leave the company and try to sue employer after collecting certain evidence. I have never encountered this situation before and hopefully not.
(http Minh Le (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4371983) Thursday
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Hi Jimmy, I have the same way of thinking as you that I will evaluate the information given to me since the first thing I would consider is whether my reputation will be damaged badly. For me, I like to have a conversation with the employer to get to the point of agreement however, if not then I will leave the company, it basically the same as you, but I wouldn't bother much argue with the employer because I believe it is just a waste of time.
(http Dang Minh Nhu Nguyen (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4487496) Yesterday
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 9/23
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Hello Jimmy,
I like how you would sit down and evaluate the information rather than refuse to write the topic right away. I agree that the article should be assign to another employee if anything else did not work out, that way, both the employer, us, and the other person can all be happy. After reading the comments, I also found it pretty interesting that we can sue the employer. If it is the case, and we had already went into an argument with the employer, it is necessary to keep everything documented for future use(s).
(https:// Yatning Tam Belmonte (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4487366) Thursday
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If the request was made verbally, ideally I would first politely ask my boss to send me an email with details of the request. That way I have an excuse to think it over before I could give a constructive response. And if ever I find the request to be unethical later on, I have documentation. If the company has a legal department or a law consultant, I would then turn to them for advice. I might also take the opinions of friends or acquaintances who has established legal knowledge. I would then prepare questions that I would I ask my employer on our next conversation, on one hand to make sure that he/she is aware of the nature of the request, on the other hand to express my concerns. I would have a co-worker present if at all possible to have a witness. A good way to go that I read is to suggest an ethical alternative that will achieve the same purpose and yield similar or better results (Victor, 2007). The same source also suggest that more than half of employees in the US faced retaliation after reporting or making a complain against their bosses. So although I wish nothing more to do the right thing at all times, truth is I would probably worry about my personal interest at the company before taking any action.
Reference
Victor, D. (2017). When the boss wants you to do something unethical. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/06/smarter-living/work-ethics-advice.html
(http Nono Li (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4407359) 3:37am
Hi Yatning, it must be important to keep the documentation from your employer, that would be a important evidence to protect yourself, we don't want to harm anyone, but
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 10/23
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we want to make sure that no one can harm us.
(http David Cortes (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4487092) 4:13pm
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I really like your approach to this situation and I thought it was very smart. Keeping written records of the request is a very smart move and is good habit to have in general, especially in engineering. Sometimes a boss or a client can make an order which isn't always the smartest, well-informed idea, and it can result in an undesirable outcome. This makes us liable to blame even though we delivered exactly what they asked. A written record is often very useful because it can be used as evidence if the situation later escalates.
I also liked that you thought to offer a better alternative that achieves the same result instead of outright refusing to participate, as I would have done. I think presenting the problem with their request and then offering an alternative solution is a better idea because it shows that you're looking out for them and you're trying to find a realistic solution, and optimistically, it may also help make the person asking the request to reflect and reconsider their overall approach.
(http Will Mac (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4486964) 6:12pm
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Hi Yatning,
I like how you try not to respond directly to the employer by asking him to send an email with details of the request. Which you can use that time to get more information, like legal knowledge as you said or some experience from you co-workers as they may also have encountered this situation.
(https:// Xinyuan Zhou (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4371290) Thursday
I will choose not to write this article because not all articles can be published in public. "But in the United States and other democracies, there is a different kind of threat, which may be doing more damage to the discourse about politics, news and science. It encompasses the mass distortion of truth and overwhelming waves of speech from extremists that smear
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 11/23
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and distract." (Bazelon, 2020) As a writer, even though we live in a country with free speech, I should always be a moral person and responsible to my readers. In such a society with freedom of speech, many people can no longer tell the truth of a piece of information. Authors' articles tend to guide the reader. If the information is fake and wrong, it will lead to some bad consequences. If I encounter such a thing, I may ask for advice from my parents or manager, they are rich in experience, maybe they have met the same problem and solved it perfectly. If it's a large company, I might have a private meeting with my employer to express my feelings while avoiding any potential fallout if word gets out.
Bazelon, E. (2020, October 13). The Problem of Free Speech in an Age of Disinformation. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/10/13/magazine/free-speech.html.
(http Nono Li (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4407359) 3:34am
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Hi Xinyuan, I agree with you that arthors' articles tend to guide the reader, most of time the readers are also tend to see what they want to see, the truth might be cover and no one would ever know about it, and it is hard for the reader to figure out what is the ture truth.
(https:// Minh Le (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4371983) Thursday
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In this situation, if I decline what my employer asked me to do, the percent chance of me losing my job is going to increase, and if I write the article, I will feel uncomfortable. If the situation ever happens to me, I will not write the article because it is against my belief to put hatred speech or create violence in any form of communication. However, I will confront my employer with a one on one conversation about my feelings and how we can still figure out a way of writing the persuasive article that the information makes many comfortable. If my employer doesn't want to consider my perspective toward the article, I rather get fire from the job than write a persuasive article that might cost controversies and ruin my reputation. Of course, I still can change some of the information in the article however, the meaning behind it, it still the same. Consider it, even if I write the article without talking to the employer if anything happens they can fire me and my reputation is bad already, so it will be hard to look for a different job.
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 12/23
(http Olivia Sanchez (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4470677) Yesterday
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Hi Minh! In a professional setting, it is often hard to decide between staying true to your values, or doing something uncomfortable and keeping your job. I agree with you that the best decision is to discuss your concerns and feedback on how to write a more appropriate article, or a completely different article with your employer. I also agree that if your employer isn't on your side about a sensitive topic that can cause hatred and violence, then it is a good idea to look for another place of employment. No job is worth losing yourself and your values over. It is a hard decision, but in order to be successful, I believe that it is important that in appropriate situations, you need to be able to speak up for what is right.
(http Deep Joshi (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4315236) 3:36pm
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Hey Minh, very well said. If you decline what you were supposed to write, there is a chance you might get fired. One of my friends went through something similar. He wasn't fired but his manager did not think as highly of him anymore. Not confronting your boss, should never be an option as the report will have your name attached to it. If there is hate spread around, you might be responsible for it. At times, I have had superiors appreciate me (in a junior position) when I had to offer a suggestion.
(http Will Mac (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4486964) 6:18pm
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Hi Minh,
I completely agree that you and the employer will need a serious talk on this situation if the information makes you feel uncomfortable. And you are right, if you decline immediately, you may lose your job.
(https:// Joanna Martos (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4369733) Thursday
To begin, if my employer asked me to write a persuasive article with information that made me uncomfortable, I would stay true to my morals and values and not do it. To explain,
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 13/23
Edited by Joanna Martos (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4369733) on Jun 10 at 11:07pm
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even though the First Amendment allows people freedom of speech, if words are used to incite hatred or violence, legal action should be pursued immediately. Furthermore, if I were to publish this persuasive article, I could be responsible for inciting violence or hatred, which could put me at risk of being pursued legally. Therefore, I would not publish the article and contact either HR or the social media company’s legal department to help resolve this problem and receive advice. Moreover, I would confront my employer about this issue and if we are not able to come to a mutual agreement, I would resign from the company. Most importantly, I would not want to be working for a company that believes it is okay to put other peoples safety at risk. Finally, I do not personally know anyone who has encountered a situation like this, but I assume it is not uncommon for companies to publish articles that have hateful or violent information included.
(http Deep Joshi (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4315236) 4:10pm
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Hey Joanna,
I did not mention contacting HR or legal in my discussion post but I believe that is a smart idea. No amount of information is worth risking people's lives. Communicating with the superior has worked for me in the past. In my experience, employers have been understanding of the issues I am having and would ask me to tone down a bit or would write it themselves. This was in India though, so the work culture differed. That being said, one of my friends didn't get a promotion for the same reason of declining his superior for something he was supposed to do.
(https:// Olivia Sanchez (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4470677) Yesterday
In a professional setting, it is often difficult to decipher what is right and wrong. You are supposed to be able to trust your company, managers, and coworkers to make decisions that are reasonable and justifiable. This is sometimes not the case, but it is up to you to make the right decisions for your company and yourself. Even though it is your career, if something isn’t right, then I believe that it is important to voice your opinions. If my employer asked me to write an article on something that I wasn’t comfortable with doing, I’d first discuss with myself the situation, and the effects it could have on everyone: the company, employees, customers, general public, and myself. If I think that it is something that promotes hatred and violence, then I will express my concerns to my employer. I am not afraid to speak up for what is right and wrong. I will make sure that I have evidence and
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 14/23
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facts to support my concerns, so that my argument is more credible. If my employer doesn’t listen to my concerns about a serious controversial topic, then I would definitely rethink working for a company that promotes hatred and violence, and doesn’t care about my opinions. I have not met anyone who has been in a situation like this, and I hope that myself or anyone else isn’t put in a situation like this.
(http Nha Phung (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4372570) Yesterday
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Hi Olivia,
Your opinion is very thorough. I appreciate your ranking where you placed yourself last. But on the other hand, you also said that we should voice our opinions for righteousness. I agree with you that employees should learn how to voice their opinions when they don't feel comfortable with their assigned task, especially as a writer. We become writers to write the truth and expose the wrongdoings, not to promote hatred and violence.
(http Enrique Martinez (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4439431) 4:32pm
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Yes, I agree, one alternative to writing about the article would be simply to leave. If their is something about the managerial demands that don't align with your personal beliefs or points of view, you should be allowed to decline involvement and leave the company instead of trying to change elements of the operation that don't align with your individual preferences.
Now, if the material being requested of you offends people of varying walks of life and disciplines, than it may be an issue that should be presented to other systems that check and balance the power of said publisher.
Maybe you could submit your information to a competitor, in a powerful but necessary smear campaign against the truly unacceptable perspective of your target of interest.
Great Response.
Thank You,
Olivia Sanchez
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 15/23
(https:// Kerry Liu (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4425746) Yesterday
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If my employer asked me to write something that is making me feel uncomfortable or false information for publication, I would first go do some digging myself and try to find out the truth. This may include researching on the topic and interviewing related people to confirm the information I have on hand is correct. If there are any unmatched information, I would discuss it with my employer that I got different information than what he or she wants me to write. If he or she insists that I still need to write the misleading information for publication, I would confront with my employer. I would tell he or she that this persuasive article has information that makes me uncomfortable and if you do not adjust some information on there, please go find someone else to write it and I will quit my job here. Personally, I feel that the purpose of being a writer is to write the truth and expose the government's or society's wrongdoings (Wermile, 2019), and articles, especially persuasive articles hold grate power of changing public opinion. If the information we write is uncomfortable to some group of people or informations that are false, then it contradicts the purpose of the press.
Reference
Wermile, S. J. (2019, March 26). Freedom of the Press: Challenges to This Pillar of Democracy. American Bar Association. https://www.americanbar.org/ (https://www.americanbar.org/)
groups/public_education/publications/insights-on-law-and-society/volume- 19/insights-vol-19-issue-2/freedom-of-the-press/
(http Nha Phung (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4372570) Yesterday
Edited by Nha Phung (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4372570) on Jun 11 at 6:56pm
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Hi Kerry,
I really like how you brought up the purpose of being a writer, and I agree with you. False news can hurt a lot of people and its consequence might be unbearable. I also like the way you process the task. You patiently find out the truth rather than directly reject the task. But in the end, you just have to do what you feel right. You are paid to do what is right and comfortable, not to satisfy your reputation.
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 16/23
(http Enrique Martinez (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4439431) 4:26pm
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I appreciate your thoughtful response.
I would say that if the article's subject matter is true, it should be published regardless of how it makes people feel. The job of a publisher is to disseminate constructive information, regardless of how people will feel toward their objective and thoroughly investigated conclusions.
Thanks For Your Response!
(http David Cortes (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4487092) 4:50pm
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I love your dedication to the truth.
(https:// Nha Phung (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4372570) Yesterday
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If my employer asked me to write an article that included information that made me feel uncomfortable, I will refuse the task. First, I must take responsibility for everything I do and be aware of all the tasks that I handle. Everything will lead to a consequence, and the consequence of writing a persuasive article is hurting someone's honor, dignity, and integrity. Second, the news might hurt unrelated or innocent people. Although, this is a job assignment from my employer, and I have a contract with the company. Thus, before giving out the final decision, I would go ask my colleague for advice. Also, since I still have the contract with the company, and refusing the task might cause me unemployed, or any bad consequences. I will consult the lawyer for a wiser and better decision. I don't know anyone that has encountered this situation. However, I would confront my employer with truth and evidence. Because my feelings can be used to attack me back if I confront them with my employer. Moreover, when confronting someone, we should use logic and evidence, not feelings.
(http Joanna Martos (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4369733) 12:15pm
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 17/23
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Hi Nha!
I definitely agree with you how taking on the responsibility for writing a potentially harmful article can come with consequences. It is not worth risking your integrity and self-worth for a company that believes it is okay to publish misleading information. Also, like you said, going straight to the employer to discuss this issue may be used against you and could cost you your job, so it is best to contact the company's legal department or human resources to resolve this.
(https:// Dang Minh Nhu Nguyen (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4487496) Yesterday
Edited by Dang Minh Nhu Nguyen (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4487496) on Jun 12 at 4:02pm
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Discussion 2: FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
I have not yet had any occasions where an employer has asked me to write anything that makes me feel uncomfortable. If that were to happen, the first thing I would do is break down the task into smaller chunks to ensure I received the work correctly. I will surely seek out my Professors (perhaps you) for assistance and guidance. I believe they have enough experiences to handle these situations. However, in case I have to handle this alone; I think a sense of calm is critical in this kind of circumstances to keep both parties pleased. I would provide my opinion on the information and inquire about theirs. I would take the assignment if we both agreed that the information should be reduced to a certain degree. It is unethical, in my opinion, for anyone to force themselves into writing material that could be a trigger, and it is also not a good idea to refuse the employer's request immediately. On the other hand, if my boss and I dispute over the topic, the solution would be broken down into smaller pieces. I'd ask whether it's feasible for me to skip over the sensitive part of the article while I finish the remainder. If the answer is yes or positive, that's fantastic; it'll be beneficial to both of us. If the answer is no or negative, which means I'll have to write the entire convincing piece for publication, I'll politely decline the work. I understand that it is neither my employer's nor my fault that some aspects of the article make me uncomfortable, thus there is no reason to refuse outright. I would also advise the employer to delegate this task to others who are eager to write it for the company since it will work out better if both parties are satisfied.
(http Mary Markart (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4472810) 12:39pm
Hi Dang.
It is interesting that you might go to a Professor for guidance. I had not thought of that approach, but I wonder now what insights they might have regarding experience with
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 18/23
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students trying to pass work that they feel uncomfortable grading. I believe handling the situation calmy is important as well, otherwise, it may be harder to communicate effectively. Breaking down into smaller chunks and raising flags at the bits you are uncomfortable with is a great approach. In my response, I think I neglected to regard the request as an ethical one that could be handled by a different employee.
(http Kerry Liu (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4425746) 6:21pm
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Hi Dang,
I really liked your idea of breaking the task down in more details. You have a really nice and smooth approach in terms of discussing with the employer, and you want to me both parties happy. I think this is a really goos approach as an employee in a company, where you want to find the best solution to both parties and reduce the conflict in a nice way.
(http Matthew Chris Tiangson (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4313957) 7:12pm
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Hi Dang,
It is interesting to look towards professors for advice, but it is a good view point to have. In my opinion, you should also look towards other's viewpoints which can help give you a deeper insight into whether you should write the article or not. Some people I would go to would be co workers, or even your boss to ask how they dealt with such a situation. Coming up with a solution with your boss would be the best idea, as you have the chance of negotiating a more easier deal with them. But I agree with your decision that if a deal can not be made, you have the right to decline the writing as it conflict with your own morals.
(https:// Alexander Hoang (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4432924) Yesterday
I think an employee should be able to write a persuasive article for publication that can be uncomfortable to them if it does not conflict with their working rights. If it is a violation of their rights, law or may harm others then its common sense that it should not be written.
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 19/23
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Each company usually has a code of conduct that outlines the values that they uphold. Texas Instruments, for example as well as many other companies have similar Code of Conduct that are dense and detailed. I believe it is the role of the worker to decide whether or not they want to complete the task. If an employee chooses not make something against their standards, then that is completely the buyer’s decision and are not a valid reasons for returning items.
Completing uncomfortable tasks are a huge part of a job. Doing things that are difficult, or conflict with a person's views are not uncommon. If an employer asked me to write a persuasive article for publication that included information that made you feel uncomfortable, I would hardly hesitate to write it. I've written many papers throughout school that made me feel uncomfortable, against my views and was not able to question. Being employed means to trade a person's time and effort in return for a salary. As paid writers, they should be knowledgeable of the company and willing to adapt or else find a new company.
(http Mary Markart (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4472810) 12:30pm
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Hi Alexander.
I had not considered a company's code of conduct while writing my response. I agree that an employee should be able to decide whether or not they want to complete a task that they are uncomfortable with. I disagree that completing uncomfortable tasks are a huge part of the job. In my work experience, I have never been asked to complete an assignment that goes against my ethics. I have never written an assignment in school that has gone against my beliefs, but in persuasive papers, it is common to address the other side of an argument that I may not agree with.
(http Joanna Martos (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4369733) 12:32pm
Hi Alexander,
I really like what you said about how this persuasive article should not come in conflict with worker rights. It is your job though to follow the words of you employer, even if you may not like it, which is a downside to having a job. This directly relates to our First Amendment rights and can be applied to the working world. Although, the First Amendment does not cover words that incite hatred or violence. Therefore, if a
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 20/23
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company is publishing articles that have information that go against your morals, you should find a new company and pursue legal action.
(https:// Mary Markart (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4472810) 12:14pm
Edited by Mary Markart (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4472810) on Jun 12 at 12:23pm
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Engaging in unethical practices in a work environment with the intention of helping the organization has grown increasingly common. Some studies even have names for it such as "unethical pro-organizational behaviors" (Grabowski et al. 2019). According to a New York Times article titled, "When the Boss Wants You to Do Something Unethical" by Daniel Victor in 2017, communication is the first step in reconciling any unethical requests. One might want to communicate with the authority figure and make sure that they understand the assignment and clear up what they might assume to be unethical. It might be a simple case of misunderstanding. Workers should be allowed to express their concerns about unethical practices without fear of repercussion or retaliation. Human resources could be helpful in resolving an issue with an unethical request that is mishandled by a boss or employer.
My approach would be to communicate with the person making the request. I would share that I feel uncomfortable and I believe the request to be unethical. Depending on their response, I would maybe talk to human resources to express my concerns. I might also confide in a coworker to see if they have had a similar experience and what actions they took. If no action is taken, I would probably reconsider my current employer and start looking for other jobs. From my experience, students are less likely to engage in unethical behavior at the request of authority figures but it is not uncommon for a student to engage in unethical behaviors in a misguided attempt to benefit academically. I have not met someone that has encountered a questionable work assignment.
Grabowski, D., Chudzicka‐Czupała, A., Chrupała‐Pniak, M., Mello, A. L., & Paruzel‐ Czachura, M. (2019). Work ethic and organizational commitment as conditions of unethical pro‐organizational behavior: Do engaged workers break the ethical rules? International Journal of Selection and Assessment, 27(2), 193–202.
Victor, D. (2017, July 6). When the Boss Wants You to Do Something Unethical. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/06/smarter-living/work-ethics-advice.html.
(http Kerry Liu (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4425746)
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 21/23
6:24pm
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Hi Mary,
I really like your response because you first started with solutions to solve the unethical situation, and you provided your own idea. I agree with you that talking to human resources and others before talking to the employer is a very good approach, because you can get multiple different ideas to your situation.
(https:// Deep Joshi (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4315236) 3:25pm
Edited by Deep Joshi (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4315236) on Jun 12 at 4:11pm
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It depends on the information I have been given. If it is a statement of fact I would check it and if I find it incomplete or inaccurate I will inform my manager of my research. If it’s a piece of writing with opinions, I would talk to someone in my company who has been through this and ask him or her what he did when he was confronted about it. If I didn’t have the luxury of asking someone, I would take it up to my boss and explain my dilemma to him and also tell him why I am feeling uncomfortable. My friend was in the same situation a couple of years ago. He wasn’t sure about the article written so he went to his boss and said he can’t do it because he is not comfortable with it. My friend did not think he owed an explanation to his superior. This happened in India so there is a difference in work culture and expectations.
(http Matthew Chris Tiangson (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4313957) 6:25pm
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Hi Deep,
It is interesting how different work culture could determine how a worker would approach their employer. I wonder how approachable employers are in India compared to the US work culture. One explanation is not so much the work culture, but rather how the individual boss likes to handle their employees. I say this as at my work, my boss is very approachable and since it is a very open oriented work place we can often go up to him to ask him any questions. It could be that your friend's boss likes to be more open but it would be interesting to see how this would compare to the US when under the same situation as this.
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 22/23
(https:// Enrique Martinez (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4439431) 4:20pm
Edited by Enrique Martinez (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4439431) on Jun 12 at 4:22pm
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Discussion Response:
My approach would be thoroughly vetted with all of the rigor of a constitutional lawyer. I would likely explain both perspectives, from truly violent and hateful commentary being removed to the other extreme of modern children looking to be victims in the name of other peoples' gripes as perceived by the "a-grieved". The bottomline would be that those companies that are silencing peoples' speech can do so since it is their platform and they have a right to select what stays and what is deemed "violent". The owners of the social platforms establish those parameters. If my employer asked me to write a persuasive article about something that made me feel uncomfortable, I would do it. It is my hypothetical job to complete the material being requested. If the material is blatantly discriminatory or genuinely offensive in some egregious manner, the business would suffer as a result of it. In fact, if my employer asked me to write about subject matter I am not in agreement with, I would, because if enough people recognize the harmful nature of the press, they would cease involvement in the operation as a consumer and the publishing would go defunct. The 1% should not be directly responsible of what is published and what is not. No matter what socioeconomic bracket they are a part of or feel entitled enough to speak for.
(https:// Matthew Chris Tiangson (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4313957) 5:04pm
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To handle this situation, I would follow a number of way to tackle it. For starters, for advice I would go to trusted sources for information to not only obtain a certified source for any readers, but as well as to inform myself to get a clearer understanding of a topic, even if it makes me uncomfortable. Some examples of those I would ask would depend on the situation, for example, if I was asking in something related to COVID-19, I would talk to a certified doctor that is directly involved in this situation. To confront my employer about this, I would express my exact feelings, as I have my own opinions and believe that if I am reporting this issue, I should discuss my personal views and see if there is a possible unbiased view that may be reported. I do not know anyone that has been in this situation before.
6/12/2021 Topic: DISCUSSION 2 -- FAKE NEWS OR PERSUASIVE WRITING?
https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/discussion_topics/4312648 23/23
(https:// Will Mac (https://sjsu.instructure.com/courses/1424294/users/4486964) 6:07pm
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If my employer as me to do this, I would not respond to him immediately and would ask him for some time to think. As I know if I am doing this, not just me who will feel uncomfortable, also the readers. If I am rejecting this, it may affect my job. Then, I may ask my co-workers about their experience about this situation as my co-workers may have encountered this situation. Also, I can know more about the employer’s character to predict his reaction if I reject him. After doing this, I will respond to my employer, telling him about my concerns and it makes me feel uncomfortable, also suggesting that he can find others to do this.
(https:// Ke Chen (https://sjsu.instructure.com/about/4256581) 7:53pm
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Suppose my employer asked me to write a persuasive article for publication that included information that made me feel uncomfortable, personally I would not rush doing the task as requested but instead take time to analyze and have a clear understanding of the matter (Poff, 2009). The solution will not be all about doing exactly what my employer instructs me to but have an understanding as to why I should perform the task. Despite the stereotype that the employer is always right and any employee should not question them does not make me susceptible to follow the instructions blindly without getting to understand the situation. What matters a lot is my self-discipline, principles, and what am being asked to write. Basically if am being asked to write something I do not agree with, I would do my own research by getting advice from experts on the matter and weigh the benefits and the disadvantage of the publication (Poff, 2009). But in case I come to learn that the publication makes me feel uncomfortable I will simply tell the employer that am not comfortable with the publication and for the purpose of the company’s reputation and my sincere concern I will not be happy handling a publication that will make me feel biased about the organization. I know of several friends who have encountered the situation and the only thing that satisfied their feelings is sincerity to their employer.
