Final answer:
Ms. Chen applies the practical ethical rule, focusing on the impact of firing employees based on age or attractiveness on the company's reputation and relationships, rather than purely on moral or utilitarian grounds.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the scenario presented, Ms. Chen is applying the practical ethical rule. This rule takes into account the practical consequences of an action for the stakeholders involved. In terms of business ethics, this focuses on the impact that decisions have on the company's reputation and relationships with its customers and employees, rather than purely on moral doctrines or the totality of good produced by an action. Ms. Chen's concern for the potential damage to the company's reputation if it were found to be discriminating against employees based on age or attractiveness underscores the practical considerations of maintaining trust and goodwill among the public.
It is also important to note that, while elements of justice and moral rights are touched upon due to the nature of the discrimination involved, Ms. Chen's argument is based on the practical outcomes for the company rather than on justice for the employees or a utilitarian calculation of happiness or utility. Therefore, option c, the practical rule, is the primary ethical consideration being applied by Ms. Chen in this instance.