How Good People Make Tough Choices — Resolution Principles (Key Concepts from the Notes)

A set of QUESTION_AND_ANSWER flashcards covering the core concepts from the notes on resolution principles, key ethical theories (utilitarianism, Kantian ethics, Golden Rule), Rawls' veil of ignorance, and applied case studies from The Trooper's Dilemma, May, Maud, and the Girls' Basketball Team.

What are the three resolution principles Kidder discusses for resolving dilemmas in How Good People Make Tough Choices?

Ends-based thinking (utilitarianism), rule-based thinking (Kantian/deontological), and care-based thinking (the Golden Rule).

What is ends-based thinking and what philosophy does it correspond to?

Also called utilitarianism; a consequentialist approach that seeks the greatest good for the greatest number by weighing outcomes.

What are the two varieties of utilitarianism mentioned, and how do they differ?

Act utilitarianism (maximizes good in each action) and rule utilitarianism (follows rules that maximize overall benefit).

What is Kant's categorical imperative?

Act only on maxims that you could will to become universal laws; act out of duty and treat maxims as universal.

Why do critics say the rule-based approach (Kantian ethics) can be too rigid?

Universalizable rules can conflict with situations and overlook nuance or conflicting duties, making rigid application problematic.

What is care-based thinking and which well-known rule does it invoke?

The Golden Rule: do unto others as you would have them do unto you; emphasizes empathy and reversibility.

What is the reversibility criterion in moral reasoning as discussed by Kidder?

Imagine yourself in the other person's position and ask how you would want to be treated in that situation.

What is the Golden Rule and why is it labeled 'care-based' thinking?

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you; emphasizes caring for others and putting oneself in their shoes.

What is John Rawls' veil of ignorance?

A thought experiment where decision-makers are behind a veil of ignorance about their own place in society to ensure impartial rules.

How did the three principles apply to Katherine Fanning's dilemma in The Anchorage Daily News case?

Fanning's decision was guided by rule-based thinking (publish or delay) and care-based thinking (avoid harming someone), rather than a pure ends-based utilitarian calculation.

What does The Trooper's Dilemma illustrate about moral decision-making in emergencies?

A tension among short-term vs long-term outcomes and mercy vs justice; whether to shoot to relieve immediate suffering or preserve life.

In The Trooper's Dilemma, what is the 'third way' noted by Kidder?

A middle ground between extremes that reduces suffering without killing, found through thoughtful deliberation.

What dilemmas are highlighted in The Social Service Counselor (May) case?

Truth-versus-loyalty; self-versus-other; short-term versus long-term consequences; balancing professional standards with the right course of action.

In The Loyal Employee (Maud) case, what is the core conflict?

Self-versus-community: balancing loyalty to an individual employee against the school's needs and budget constraints.

In The Girls' Basketball Team case, what are the primary ethical tensions Allen must navigate?

Justice (enforce rules) versus mercy (rehabilitation and student welfare), and balancing ends-based, rule-based, and care-based reasoning.

What is the purpose of the resolution process in Kidder's framework?

To gather relevant information, explore alternatives, and apply a moral principle to guide the final decision.

How does Kidder describe ethics language in the 'Language of Ethics' section?

Ethics language must balance precision and expansive storytelling; ethics is a verbal activity with narrative vs analytical language—no single formula for resolution.