Controversy
McDonald's is one of the largest distributors of toys, which is included in 20% of
their sales.Monet Parham came forth to sue McDonald's because her daughters
would nag and cry for the Happy Meals constantly even when told no, she claimed
that McDonald's had invaded their minds through their deceptive marketing.The following theories: individualism, utilitarian, Kantian, and
virtue theory examine if the McDonald's Corporation is acting ethically or not and
why.Complaints that McDonald's influences unhealthy eating habits through their
advertisements and exploits young children has risen with the toy claim.For each theory McDonald's has acted ethically, the only theory that breaches
ethical decisions is Kantian but overall the corporation has acted ethical thus far.Children push to get a new toy in a Happy Meal and play on the
playground provided at many establishments which drive profits, Friedman would
agree with their practices because it has and will continue to create maximum profit.In 2010 McDonald's was
sued for unethical marketing practices towards children through the act of providing
those toys.McDonald's is purposely marketing children because they are able to persuade their
parents to purchase their products.The Happy Meal that is targeted towards children began in 1979 and
became rapidly popular with the fun box, small portions, and of course, the ever-
changing toy included.McDonald's targets children through Ronald McDonald and
the kids play areas as well, making it a fun environment.A law in
two cities of California has passed saying that any establishments that does not meet
nutritional value will not be allowed to serve toys with the meals.Today the Happy
Meal is still in place and the practices are continuing to attract children to their
establishments.Kantianism
Kantian theory states that one should do things for the right reasons, that people are
not just numbers but should be respected and one should aid in rational decisions of
the people and the company.Individualism
According to Friedmans's theory of individualism the company is acting ethical.Utilitarian theory states that happiness should be maximized while pain should be
minimized.Again, according to the Utilitarian theory McDonald's is acting ethical.All the stakeholders are happy considering the situation, the stakeholders are the
customers, which include the parents and children, the employees of McDonald's
and the McDonald's corporation.The children are happy with their toys, and
playgrounds, and a clown, which is the face of the McDonald's Corporation.With higher profits
employees are able to have job security, higher wages and better benefits.If
McDonald's continues to grow, which it is, then there are also more job opportunities
available around the world.With the children, parents and the corporation happy,
maximum happiness is achieved.The
company's main goal is to maximize profit for the owner and stockholders.Therefore
increasing sales.