Module 1 Ethics - Ethical Dilemmas and Prescriptive Approaches

Flashcards covering the key concepts from Module 1 Ethics: ethical dilemmas, three prescriptive ethical approaches (consequentialist, deontological, virtue ethics), their questions and advantages/challenges, virtue ethics tests (New York Times/Twitter disclosure, community standards), and a step-by-step guide to ethical decision making.

What is an ethical dilemma?

A situation in which values are in conflict, involving two or more values you hold dear, often pitting personal values against organizational values.

What are the three prescriptive approaches in ethics?

Consequentialist theories (focus on consequences), Deontological theories (focus on duties and principles), and Virtue Ethics (focus on integrity/character).

What do Consequentialist theories focus on?

The consequences of actions and selecting options that maximize benefits or minimize harms for society.

What questions do Consequentialist approaches ask?

Who are the stakeholders (immediate and distant)? What actions are possible? What are the harms/benefits for stakeholders? Which action yields the greatest net benefit for the greatest number.

What are advantages and challenges of Consequentialist approaches?

Advantages: practical and often underlying business thinking. Challenges: hard to evaluate all consequences; can sacrifice minority rights.

What characterizes Deontological theories?

Decisions are based on universal moral principles (honesty, fairness, promise-keeping, rights, justice, respect) and focus on doing what is right rather than maximizing welfare.

What questions do Deontological approaches ask?

Which principles apply and which are most important? What are my duties and obligations? Have I treated others as I would want to be treated? If everyone did this, would it be acceptable?

What are advantages and challenges of focusing on duties/rights?

Advantage: rights-based reasoning appears in public policy debates; Challenges: determining which rule or right to follow and how to reconcile conflicting duties with consequences.

What is the focus of Virtue Ethics?

The integrity, character, motivations, and intentions of the moral actor, as defined by the relevant community.

What is the 'Disclosure Rule' in virtue ethics?

Would you be comfortable with family/friends knowing your decision or with it being published on traditional or social media?

What questions do Virtue Ethics use to evaluate integrity?

What does it mean to be a person of integrity in this situation/profession? What ethical community would hold me to high standards? Do such standards exist? What would the broader community think if disclosed?

What is the New York Times Test / Twitter prompt?

Would my harshest moral critic or role model expect me to do this? What would I want my professional reputation to be?

What are the seven steps of sound ethical decision making?

1) Gather the facts; 2) Define the ethical issues; 3) Identify affected parties; 4) Identify consequences; 5) Identify obligations; 6) Consider character and integrity; 7) Think creatively about potential actions.

What is meant by 'Check your gut' and related practical steps?

When asked to make a snap decision, pay attention to your gut, ask for time, check company policy, consult managers/peers, and use the New York Times test (disclosure rule).