Ethical Decision Making

A set of flashcards covering key ethical theories and concepts discussed during the lecture on decision making processes.

What is the focus of utilitarianism in ethical decision making?

Utilitarianism focuses on the consequences of actions and aims to produce the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people.

According to Kant's rights theory, what is a key consideration in ethical decision making?

Kant's rights theory emphasizes the importance of respecting individual rights and treating people as ends in themselves, not as means to an end.

What are the key steps in the ethical decision making framework?

1. Identify the ethical issue. 2. Identify options. 3. Assess the impact on those involved. 4. Apply ethical standards. 5. Test the decision and execute.

What factors should be considered from a caring perspective in decision making?

The nature of relationships and the importance of loyalty, trust, and the well-being of those impacted by the decision.

What is distributive justice concerned with?

Distributive justice is concerned with the fair distribution of benefits and burdens across society.

How does the virtue ethical approach define morality?

The virtue ethical approach defines morality in terms of the character of individuals, focusing on pre-established values and virtues developed through habit and education.

What ethical dilemma is faced by GreenTech manufacturing regarding outsourcing?

GreenTech must decide whether to outsource production to save costs and avoid bankruptcy, which would lead to local job losses, or to keep local production and risk the company's financial viability.

What is a potential ethical concern regarding outsourcing production?

Concerns include the potential exploitation of workers overseas, including low wages and poor working conditions.

What role do stakeholders play in the utilitarian analysis of a decision?

Stakeholders are individuals or groups affected by the decision, and their happiness or wellbeing is considered when evaluating the consequences of the action.

How can the decision to use hidden cameras be justified from a utilitarian perspective?

If using hidden cameras leads to greater protection of individuals and reduces the risk of harm to more people, it can be justified as a means to achieve the greater good.

What were the main reasons against outsourcing production from a rights perspective?

The rights of current employees to their jobs and the potential violation of rights for workers in the overseas supply chain were key reasons against outsourcing.

What is the main difference between ethics and legality in the outsourcing debate?

Ethics concerns moral principles and the rightness of actions, while legality focuses on compliance with laws, which may not always align with ethical considerations.