Final answer:
The Doctrine of Respondeat Superior is based on ethical notions of employer accountability and fairness, aligning with Ross's ethical theories including duties of reparation and non-maleficence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The rationale for the Doctrine of Respondeat Superior is grounded in ethical concepts of accountability and fairness in employment relationships. This legal doctrine holds that employers are vicariously liable for the actions of their employees when such actions are performed within the scope of employment. The basis for this doctrine is that employers are in a better position to absorb the costs of wrongful acts, through mechanisms like insurance, and are responsible for the actions of their employees because they exercise control over them and benefit from their work.
In applying ethical principles to this doctrine, we may consider Ross's view on prima facie duties, which include duties of reparation and non-maleficence. According to Ross's theory, employers have a prima facie duty to remedy harm because of the working relationship with the employee, and this could justify Respondeat Superior. Furthermore, given contemporary awareness of our actions' impact, there could arguably be an increased moral imperative for employers to oversee their employees carefully and ensure their actions do not cause harm.