Mahinder, a Practicing Sikh, Is Hired by Octagonian Steel Fabricators

question 24

Multiple Choice

Mahinder, a practicing Sikh, is hired by Octagonian Steel Fabricators as a forklift driver. Occupational safety regulations and company rules require all employees in the plant to wear a hardhat. Mahinder refuses to wear the hardhat because he is unwilling to cover his turban. Octagonian fires Mahinder, who brings a case under Title VII in which he alleges discrimination based on religion.

• A) Octagonian will prevail because compromising safety is an undue hardship.
• B) Mahinder will prevail because a turban is enough of a head covering to protect his head.
• C) Mahinder should ask a Sikh priest for a special dispensation to wear the hard hat because an employee has a duty to try to cooperate with the employer.
• D) Mahinder will prevail because Octagonian management are ignorant about the Sikh religion.

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Definitions:

Adam Smith

An 18th-century Scottish economist and philosopher, often considered the father of modern economics, best known for his work "The Wealth of Nations" which promotes the idea of free markets and the invisible hand guiding economic activity.

Public Interest

The welfare or well-being of the general public; often used to justify government actions or policies intended to protect or benefit the population as a whole.

Selfish Interests

Actions or motives focused primarily on one's own advantage, benefit or well-being, often at the expense of others.

American Industry

The sector of the U.S. economy involved in the production of goods and services, encompassing a wide range of activities from manufacturing to technology.