Legally, Google’s firing of Damore may or may not be problematic, but is Google’s firing of Damore ethical?

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Whether Google’s firing of Damore was ethical or not is a highly debatable subject. On one hand, some may argue that Google had the right to terminate Damore for violating its code of conduct. After all, they have a responsibility to create and maintain an inclusive environment free from discrimination and Damore’s memo clearly contradicted this. Furthermore, many felt that what he said was sexist and hurtful towards female employees, so it could be argued that his dismissal was justified as an act of protection for those affected.

On the other hand, some may view his dismissal as unethical because it limited freedom of speech in the workplace. People should be able to discuss controversial topics without fear of retribution and by firing him for expressing his opinion Google could be interpreted as silencing any dissenting views. Additionally, there are those who believe that everyone is entitled to their opinion no matter how unpopular or offensive it might be which makes any form of punishment appear unjustified.

Ultimately deciding whether or not Google acted ethically in this situation is difficult because it depends on one’s personal beliefs about social justice versus free speech rights. Nevertheless, both sides can agree on at least one thing: no employee should ever feel discriminated against or uncomfortable due to their gender identity within the workplace regardless of someone else’s opinion on gender roles and expression, making Google’s commitment to creating a safe working space commendable regardless if Damore’s firing was ethical or not.