Final answer:
The moral standard being used to analyze the short-term effects of firing an underperforming employee against the long-term effects is likely based on utilitarianism, which focuses on maximizing overall happiness and minimizing overall harm.
Step-by-step explanation:
When weighing the short-term effects of firing an underperforming employee against the long-term effects, the moral standard being used to analyze the situation is likely based on the principle of utilitarianism. Utilitarianism is a consequentialist approach that focuses on maximizing overall happiness and minimizing overall harm.
In this case, the decision to fire the underperforming employee would be evaluated based on its consequences in terms of happiness for everyone involved. It involves considering the impact on the employee, the team, and the organization as a whole. The focus is on determining which action will produce the greatest good for the majority.
For example, if keeping the underperforming employee negatively affects team morale and productivity, and firing them leads to improved performance and a positive work environment, then the decision to terminate the employee would be considered morally justified according to utilitarianism.