Good Morning, Vietnam: An Ethical Analysis of Nike Activities in Southeast Asia

Lynn R. Kahle
David M. Boush
Mark Phelps

Nike has received criticism regarding the ethics of its operations in Vietnam. We examine this criticism by ethical analysis and by on-site inspection of one of its factories. We conclude that ethical decision making in business is often complicated and multidimensional. Some criticisms of Nike have been unfair but have benefited Asian workers who have promoted the principle that firms are responsible for the actions of their subcontractors. These subcontractors now have a heightened sense of responsibility for providing a good work environment., and their presence has had some desirable consequences for the awakening economy of Vietnam.