Three Students in a Business Faculty Created a Computer Program

question 67

Multiple Choice

Three students in a business faculty created a computer program that compared various retirement plans. They decided to go into business together to offer their services directly to the public. After doing a feasibility study, they felt there were profits to be made. For tax reasons, they decided not to incorporate. Each contributed $15,000 and Wayne, one of the three, contributed a computer. In a short written agreement, they agreed that all three would be actively involved in the management of the business, that all three would work to update the program, that they would share the profits equally, and that they should not be viewed as partners. Based on these facts, which of the following statements is true?

• A) They are not partners because they do not share profits in proportion to their capital contributions.
• B) They would be considered partners despite their express intention to the contrary in their agreement.
• C) They are not partners unless they realize a profit from their enterprise.
• D) If one partner dies, the partnership would be dissolved even if they state otherwise in their agreement.
• E) If Wayne were to go bankrupt, the partnership would be dissolved even if they state otherwise in their agreement.

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Definitions:

Roman Catholic Natural Law Ethics

An ethical theory based on the belief that the moral law is discoverable by every person through the use of reason and is grounded in human nature and purpose, as taught within Roman Catholic theology.

Utilitarianism

A moral theory that emphasizes the best action is the one that maximizes utility, generally defined as that which produces the greatest well-being of the greatest number of people.

Kantian Ethics

A deontological ethical theory developed by Immanuel Kant, focusing on the principle that actions are morally right if they are done out of duty and adhere to a universal moral law.

Rawls's Ethics

A theory of justice proposed by philosopher John Rawls, focusing on fairness, equality, and moral decision-making under a veil of ignorance.