QUESTION

1. Explain the concept of mark-to-market accounting as used by Skilling and Lay and why this accounting method is particularly susceptible to ethical indiscretions.

2. In what ways did the Securities and Exchange Commission fail to monitor Enron's use of this accounting method?

3. In what ways were the financial analysts, investment bankers, U.S. financial institutions, the SEC, and Enron's accounting firm Arthur Anderson complicit in helping Enron cover up massive financial and accounting fraud?

4. How did Enron's corporate culture of "survival of the fittest" contribute to the unethical business practices by employees and executives alike? Provide examples.

5. In what ways did Skilling's involvement in unethical financial and accounting practices benefit stakeholders initially?

6. What were the ultimate consequences to stakeholders and employees after bankruptcy?

7. The priest at the end of the film mentions "the pursuit of money can cause one to lose one's soul." How do you interpret this quote in the context of both the Enron scandal AND your own beliefs around money and the pursuit of it.

8. What happened to Skilling and Lay...and where are they now?

Public Answer

CKNVTG The First Answerer