Question

What is a scapegoat? A scapegoat is someone who is made to take the blame for someone else's failure or wrong- doing. In Arabic, this person is referred to as 'kebsh al mahraka.' Unfortunately, one way that power is abused in an organization is by using scapegoats. Amani was the new assistant to the Director of Finance at a shipping company in Tunis. Rima was jealous because she wanted this position. In addition, Rima knew all the ins and outs of the company and she was not a nice person. She used her influence to convince Bahaa, the Assistant Director of Finance, to help her with 'a plan." Bahaa couldn't resist the offer. Three weeks later, the company was in chaos. Then, Amani was fired. She tried to talk to her boss but he wouldn't listen. As Amani left the office, Rima and Bahaa exchanged glances. What do you think happened? Discuss the ethical implications.

Answer 1

Answer. In the given case, Rima and Bahaa joined hands and intentionally spoilt the cmpany's number to put the burden on Amani.

When something bad happens, people almost always seek an explanation. When people cannot find an explanation or wish to avoid attributing blame to the actual cause, sometimes they turn to a scapegoat. The process of scapegoating can be a long and extensive one. The person assigning blame may enlist the help of others, point to past blameworthy behavior of the scapegoat, or engage in abusive treatment of the scapegoats.

Scapegoats can suffer a variety of negative consequences including loss of social status, economic problems, social isolation, and depression. People are more likely to engage in scapegoating when they are stressed, experiencing oppression, or afraid. Scapegoating, in turn, can lead to the oppression of a scapegoated group.