ethical decision making essay

A Framework for Ethical Decision Making

• Markkula Center for Applied Ethics
• Ethics Resources

This document is designed as an introduction to thinking ethically. Read more about what the framework can (and cannot) do .  

We all have an image of our better selves—of how we are when we act ethically or are “at our best.” We probably also have an image of what an ethical community, an ethical business, an ethical government, or an ethical society should be. Ethics really has to do with all these levels—acting ethically as individuals, creating ethical organizations and governments, and making our society as a whole more ethical in the way it treats everyone.

What is Ethics?

Ethics refers to standards and practices that tell us how human beings ought to act in the many situations in which they find themselves—as friends, parents, children, citizens, businesspeople, professionals, and so on. Ethics is also concerned with our character. It requires knowledge, skills, and habits. 

It is helpful to identify what ethics is NOT:

• Ethics is not the same as feelings . Feelings do provide important information for our ethical choices. However, while some people have highly developed habits that make them feel bad when they do something wrong, others feel good even though they are doing something wrong. And, often, our feelings will tell us that it is uncomfortable to do the right thing if it is difficult.
• Ethics is not the same as religion . Many people are not religious but act ethically, and some religious people act unethically. Religious traditions can, however, develop and advocate for high ethical standards, such as the Golden Rule.
• Ethics is not the same thing as following the law. A good system of law does incorporate many ethical standards, but law can deviate from what is ethical. Law can become ethically corrupt—a function of power alone and designed to serve the interests of narrow groups. Law may also have a difficult time designing or enforcing standards in some important areas and may be slow to address new problems.
• Ethics is not the same as following culturally accepted norms . Cultures can include both ethical and unethical customs, expectations, and behaviors. While assessing norms, it is important to recognize how one’s ethical views can be limited by one’s own cultural perspective or background, alongside being culturally sensitive to others.
• Ethics is not science . Social and natural science can provide important data to help us make better and more informed ethical choices. But science alone does not tell us what we ought to do. Some things may be scientifically or technologically possible and yet unethical to develop and deploy.

Six Ethical Lenses

If our ethical decision-making is not solely based on feelings, religion, law, accepted social practice, or science, then on what basis can we decide between right and wrong, good and bad? Many philosophers, ethicists, and theologians have helped us answer this critical question. They have suggested a variety of different lenses that help us perceive ethical dimensions. Here are six of them:

The Rights Lens

Some suggest that the ethical action is the one that best protects and respects the moral rights of those affected. This approach starts from the belief that humans have a dignity based on their human nature per se or on their ability to choose freely what they do with their lives. On the basis of such dignity, they have a right to be treated as ends in themselves and not merely as means to other ends. The list of moral rights—including the rights to make one's own choices about what kind of life to lead, to be told the truth, not to be injured, to a degree of privacy, and so on—is widely debated; some argue that non-humans have rights, too. Rights are also often understood as implying duties—in particular, the duty to respect others' rights and dignity.

( For further elaboration on the rights lens, please see our essay, “Rights.” )

The Justice Lens

Justice is the idea that each person should be given their due, and what people are due is often interpreted as fair or equal treatment. Equal treatment implies that people should be treated as equals   according to some defensible standard such as merit or need, but not necessarily that everyone should be treated in the exact same way in every respect. There are different types of justice that address what people are due in various contexts. These include social justice (structuring the basic institutions of society), distributive justice (distributing benefits and burdens), corrective justice (repairing past injustices), retributive justice (determining how to appropriately punish wrongdoers), and restorative or transformational justice (restoring relationships or transforming social structures as an alternative to criminal punishment).

( For further elaboration on the justice lens, please see our essay, “Justice and Fairness.” )

The Utilitarian Lens

Some ethicists begin by asking, “How will this action impact everyone affected?”—emphasizing the consequences of our actions. Utilitarianism, a results-based approach, says that the ethical action is the one that produces the greatest balance of good over harm for as many stakeholders as possible. It requires an accurate determination of the likelihood of a particular result and its impact. For example, the ethical corporate action, then, is the one that produces the greatest good and does the least harm for all who are affected—customers, employees, shareholders, the community, and the environment. Cost/benefit analysis is another consequentialist approach.

( For further elaboration on the utilitarian lens, please see our essay, “Calculating Consequences.” )

The Common Good Lens

According to the common good approach, life in community is a good in itself and our actions should contribute to that life. This approach suggests that the interlocking relationships of society are the basis of ethical reasoning and that respect and compassion for all others—especially the vulnerable—are requirements of such reasoning. This approach also calls attention to the common conditions that are important to the welfare of everyone—such as clean air and water, a system of laws, effective police and fire departments, health care, a public educational system, or even public recreational areas. Unlike the utilitarian lens, which sums up and aggregates goods for every individual, the common good lens highlights mutual concern for the shared interests of all members of a community.

( For further elaboration on the common good lens, please see our essay, “The Common Good.” )

The Virtue Lens

A very ancient approach to ethics argues that ethical actions ought to be consistent with certain ideal virtues that provide for the full development of our humanity. These virtues are dispositions and habits that enable us to act according to the highest potential of our character and on behalf of values like truth and beauty. Honesty, courage, compassion, generosity, tolerance, love, fidelity, integrity, fairness, self-control, and prudence are all examples of virtues. Virtue ethics asks of any action, “What kind of person will I become if I do this?” or “Is this action consistent with my acting at my best?”

( For further elaboration on the virtue lens, please see our essay, “Ethics and Virtue.” )

The Care Ethics Lens

Care ethics is rooted in relationships and in the need to listen and respond to individuals in their specific circumstances, rather than merely following rules or calculating utility. It privileges the flourishing of embodied individuals in their relationships and values interdependence, not just independence. It relies on empathy to gain a deep appreciation of the interest, feelings, and viewpoints of each stakeholder, employing care, kindness, compassion, generosity, and a concern for others to resolve ethical conflicts. Care ethics holds that options for resolution must account for the relationships, concerns, and feelings of all stakeholders. Focusing on connecting intimate interpersonal duties to societal duties, an ethics of care might counsel, for example, a more holistic approach to public health policy that considers food security, transportation access, fair wages, housing support, and environmental protection alongside physical health.

( For further elaboration on the care ethics lens, please see our essay, “Care Ethics.” )

Using the Lenses

Each of the lenses introduced above helps us determine what standards of behavior and character traits can be considered right and good. There are still problems to be solved, however.

The first problem is that we may not agree on the content of some of these specific lenses. For example, we may not all agree on the same set of human and civil rights. We may not agree on what constitutes the common good. We may not even agree on what is a good and what is a harm.

The second problem is that the different lenses may lead to different answers to the question “What is ethical?” Nonetheless, each one gives us important insights in the process of deciding what is ethical in a particular circumstance.

Making Decisions

Making good ethical decisions requires a trained sensitivity to ethical issues and a practiced method for exploring the ethical aspects of a decision and weighing the considerations that should impact our choice of a course of action. Having a method for ethical decision-making is essential. When practiced regularly, the method becomes so familiar that we work through it automatically without consulting the specific steps.

The more novel and difficult the ethical choice we face, the more we need to rely on discussion and dialogue with others about the dilemma. Only by careful exploration of the problem, aided by the insights and different perspectives of others, can we make good ethical choices in such situations.

The following framework for ethical decision-making is intended to serve as a practical tool for exploring ethical dilemmas and identifying ethical courses of action.

Identify the Ethical Issues

• Could this decision or situation be damaging to someone or to some group, or unevenly beneficial to people? Does this decision involve a choice between a good and bad alternative, or perhaps between two “goods” or between two “bads”?
• Is this issue about more than solely what is legal or what is most efficient? If so, how?

Get the Facts

• What are the relevant facts of the case? What facts are not known? Can I learn more about the situation? Do I know enough to make a decision?
• What individuals and groups have an important stake in the outcome? Are the concerns of some of those individuals or groups more important? Why?
• What are the options for acting? Have all the relevant persons and groups been consulted? Have I identified creative options?

Evaluate Alternative Actions

• Evaluate the options by asking the following questions:
• Which option best respects the rights of all who have a stake? (The Rights Lens)
• Which option treats people fairly, giving them each what they are due? (The Justice Lens)
• Which option will produce the most good and do the least harm for as many stakeholders as possible? (The Utilitarian Lens)
• Which option best serves the community as a whole, not just some members? (The Common Good Lens)
• Which option leads me to act as the sort of person I want to be? (The Virtue Lens)
• Which option appropriately takes into account the relationships, concerns, and feelings of all stakeholders? (The Care Ethics Lens)

Choose an Option for Action and Test It

• After an evaluation using all of these lenses, which option best addresses the situation?
• If I told someone I respect (or a public audience) which option I have chosen, what would they say?
• How can my decision be implemented with the greatest care and attention to the concerns of all stakeholders?

Implement Your Decision and Reflect on the Outcome

• How did my decision turn out, and what have I learned from this specific situation? What (if any) follow-up actions should I take?

This framework for thinking ethically is the product of dialogue and debate at the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics at Santa Clara University. Primary contributors include Manuel Velasquez, Dennis Moberg, Michael J. Meyer, Thomas Shanks, Margaret R. McLean, David DeCosse, Claire André, Kirk O. Hanson, Irina Raicu, and Jonathan Kwan.  It was last revised on November 5, 2021.

Ethical Decision-Making Process

This importance of ethical decision-making essay focuses on the meaning and reflection of decision-making. Check out our sample to get some ideas for your ethical decision-making essay!

My Personal Ethical Framework

A difficult ethical decision related to my personal/work life, application of my ethical framework, applying a different decision-making process in the future, ethical decision-making essay: references.

Ethical decision-making is a major obligation for every human being. This is the case because whatever people do will definitely influence or affect the lives of their neighbors and friends. Three frameworks have been developed to guide people whenever engaging in ethical decision-making processes. The first approach is known as the consequentialist framework. The framework begins by outlining the outcomes that an individual should produce or strive to deliver (Ajunwa, Crawford, & Ford, 2016). This is the deliberative process that guides a person to focus on the best outcomes. The issue of focus goes further to identify the manner in which an action will affect other people. The ultimate goal of the framework is to engage in actions that can deliver desirable consequences.

The second model is the duty framework. The deliberative process of the model focuses on the obligations of an individual and actions that should be avoided. The framework is used to identify the obligations of the individual. The framework defines ethical conduct as the ability to do whatever is right. The individual is also encouraged to complete the duty in a timely manner. The third approach is the virtue framework that guides people to become ethical in nature. The deliberative process examines what an individual’s action will say about his or her character (Ajunwa et al., 2016). The ultimate focus is to discern specific values and traits that motivate other people. Ethical conduct, according to the framework, is doing the most agreeable thing depending on the targeted situation.

My ethical framework is informed by the virtue model. This is the case because my obligation has always been to become a good person. I have always wanted my actions to say more about my moral values and character. The framework guides me to embrace the best virtues that are admirable to every person (Pollard, 2015). Vices that might affect the welfare of other people are ignored. My main obligation is to empower and promote the experiences of my friends. That being the case, my ethical conduct is defined by the best actions and practices that are acceptable depending on the nature of the situation.

I have included a number of principles in my ethical framework in order to emerge successful. For instance, I always embrace the power of utilitarianism and the concept of common good. These principles guide me to make adequate decisions that can support my goals and empower others. The principle of beneficence guides me to do what is right always. The principle of non-maleficence is also included in my framework in order to ensure my actions are acceptable (Ajunwa et al., 2016). The principle of respect is also evident in my ethical model. The principles of ethics can therefore be embraced in order to guide a person’s actions.

My ethical framework features the best values that define my obligation as a human being. Some of them include integrity, trustworthiness, duty, responsibility, love, and empathy. Whenever focusing on specific decisions or actions, I always embrace these values in order to ensure the greatest form of happiness is realized (Johnson, 2016).

The other important thing is that my ethical framework has been informed by different personal and academic experiences. To begin with, the values of love and integrity gained from my religious faith have always guided my philosophy. The virtue framework studied in class has also made it easier for me to come up with a model that meets my ethical goals and obligations (Mort, Roberts, Pols, Domenech, & Moser, 2013).

My experiences at the place of work and in school have also encouraged me to act diligently depending on the existing situation (Pollard, 2015). The important thing is that I will always embrace new values, concepts, and ideas that have the potential to make me an ethical thinker who supports the welfare of the greatest number of people.

Human beings will always encounter numerous challenges whenever interacting with their friends and workmates. Individuals who have appropriate ethical decision-making frameworks will find it easier to come up with adequate decisions and support the welfare of their workmates. The ethical dilemma that encouraged me to come up with the most appropriate moral decision was experienced at my place of work (Mort et al., 2013). This dilemma emerged when one of my workmates informed me that he had stolen a laptop from the office. The manager in the department was unhappy with the malpractice and indicated clearly that the company was at risk of recording losses.

The company’s policy outlined clearly that every employee should act responsibility, handle office equipment appropriately, and avoid any misbehavior. Some of the malpractices outlined by the company include theft, vandalism, telling lies, sexual misconduct, and harassment (Pollard, 2015). Such measures have been implemented in order to ensure every employee acts ethically and focuses on the targeted goals.

The misbehavior recorded in my workplace was questionable because it was wrong to steal anything from the firm. This scenario presented an ethical dilemma because the employee had acted inappropriately (Mort et al., 2013). At the same time, it was my obligation to ensure the right procedures and practices were implemented in the office in order to support the company’s goals. I clearly understood that failing to report the matter to the head of the department could affect the performance and effectiveness of the company (Johnson, 2016). The decision to report the matter would have resulted in a disciplinary action against the employee. The worker would definitely be unhappy with me after reporting the malpractice to the relevant authorities in the company.

From this analysis, it is quite clear that my ethical values and principles could not allow me to do the wrong thing. At the same, I was expected by most of my workmates to disregard the whole issue in order to safeguard the employee’s job. Any form of theft at the place of work was also wrong and unacceptable (Dondorp & Lith, 2015). It is therefore agreeable that these pressures were influencing my decision-making process.

Several cultural influences would dictate my final decision. For instance, our cultural and religious values were against any form of theft or dishonesty (Mort et al., 2013). Most of the workers in the office also believed strongly that every individual was supposed to act in a diligent manner and embrace the most appropriate behaviors. It should also be observed that changing circumstances do not impact most of the decisions made in the working environment (Spector, 2016). This is the case because there is a clear policy that dictates the behaviors and actions undertaken by every worker.

Throughout the decision-making process, I came up with various assumptions in order to act in an ethical manner. For instance, I assumed that most of the individuals in the company would be against various malpractices such as stealing. I also assumed that it was my obligation to speak the truth and prevent similar misbehaviors from taking place in the company (Mort et al., 2013). Unfortunately, one of our workmates indicated clearly that it was inappropriate for us to disclose the issue to other manager. According to the individual, the move would have consequences such as punishment or dismissal (Dondorp & Lith, 2015).

This analysis shows conclusively that the ethical dilemma experienced in the working environment was complex or difficult in nature. This is the case because different stakeholders in the office presented diverse views about the issue. I was also expected to act diligently and uphold the policy of the company. The employee who had committed the offense would also be unhappy with my decision (Spector, 2016). Coming up with a final decision was something difficult because there was conflict of interest in the office.

The ethical dilemma also presents various values and principles that appear to be in conflict. For example, the principle of beneficence indicates clearly that human beings should do good always. The individuals in the working environment appeared to present diverse views and opinions. Several values were also evident in this ethical dilemma (Spector, 2016). For example, specific values such as duty, integrity, and honesty appeared to be challenged. That being the case, the issue should have been addressed using a powerful ethical framework in order to ensure the right thing was done.

Ethical dilemmas should be addressed using the most appropriate frameworks in order to maximize the outcomes of the affected individuals. The ethical framework described above can be used to deal with this dilemma. The important thing is outlining the primary issues or dilemmas presented in the case. To begin with, the case shows conclusively that an employee has ignored the policies implemented by the company.

This is the case because every employee in the organization is expected to act in a professional manner and take good care of its property and equipment (Dondorp & Lith, 2015). The second dilemma arises from the duty of every employee in the company. The workers should be on the frontline to support the missions and goals of the firm. They can do so by reporting every form of theft or vandalism.

The theft presented in the case is against specific principles and values such as beneficence, integrity, and duty. It is therefore necessary for the involved parties to focus on the best decision-making process that can address the issue (Mort et al., 2013). A proper understanding of the ethical issues and dilemmas can make it easier for the firm to deal with the case.

Several questions can therefore be used to guide my ethical framework and deal with this case. The first step is to answer this question: what actions should be taken in order to portray the best character? This approach will ensure the deliberative process or step of the ethical decision-making framework is completed successfully. The second issue is “the focus” (Spector, 2016, p. 1008). This means that the character traits and vices that motivate the workers in the organization are clearly analyzed. This knowledge will ensure the right decisions are made in order to deal with the issue.

The final step of the framework will be to identify and define the best ethical conduct. The most important thing will be to come up with the best ethical decision based on the nature of the dilemma or circumstance. This decision-making criterion was supported by some of the best principles and values. For instance, the beneficence principle will ensure the most appropriate action is taken (Dondorp & Lith, 2015). After experiencing the ethical dilemma, I chose to report the matter to the department leader or manager. This decision was taken seriously because it was in accordance with my ethical framework. The framework made it easier for me to deal with a major issue that was affecting the company.

It should also be indicated that my ethical framework would have been used to deliver a similar decision. With the use of the virtue framework, I would have focused on the best action or decision that defines my character (Dondorp & Lith, 2015).

My character is usually defined by moral actions and decisions that are guided by the utilitarian theory. That being the case, I would have reported the matter to the relevant authorities because theft was an unethical practice in the company. The approach would have discouraged more people in the working environment from committing similar offenses. The practice would have led to better practices and ensure the firm’s equipment and resources were safeguarded from theft.

This is the case because an “ethical decision and action should be in accordance with the philosophy of a person who is fully virtuous” (Dondorp & Lith, 2015, p. 5). This ethical decision-making process would have addressed the ethical dilemma and encouraged more people in the company to embrace the best practices.

This reflection has proved that the use of a powerful ethical decision-making framework can guide many people to deal with a wide range of dilemmas or conflicts. The ethical dilemma experienced in the workplace showed conclusively that an effective decision-making approach could deliver sustainable results (Dondorp & Lith, 2015). However, the framework used to deal with the dilemma revealed a number of diverse interests. Such challenges emerged because some of the individuals in the company were against the decision to report the matter to the relevant authorities (Johnson, 2016). Individuals can therefore embrace the use of different ethical decision-making methods to address specific dilemmas.

I strongly believe clearly that a different decision-making process can be used in the future to deliver positive results. The duty framework is a powerful model that can address various ethical dilemmas (Mort et al., 2013). The duty framework begins by identifying the deliberative process. The individual begins by highlighting the major obligations in the targeted situation or circumstance. The decision-maker will identify the things or activities that should be done or not (Dondorp & Lith, 2015). The individual will then go further to determine the facts of the case or scenario.

According to this framework, the ethical conduct entails “doing the right thing always” (Ajunwa et al., 2016, p. 478). The individual should also make sure every intended duty is completed in a timely manner. The guiding principle or motivation is performing the most appropriate or right action (Johnson, 2016). I can therefore embrace the use of the duty framework to deal with the presented ethical dilemma. By so doing, it would be easier for me to do what is right and ensure the needs of the greatest number of people are addressed. It would therefore be necessary for people to embrace “the use of different ethical decision-making frameworks in order to produce the most good and support the wellbeing of every citizen” (Mort et al., 2013, p. 441).

This case study has equipped me with useful insights and ideas that can support my ethical decision-making philosophy. I have understood that the first step towards making an ethical decision is to be aware of the deliberative process. The experience has encouraged me to embrace the role and importance of various moral principles. When such principles are followed during the decision-making process, the individual will find it easier to come up with the best ideas and actions that produce happiness (Mort et al., 2013).

The case study has also indicated clearly that every ethical dilemma will attract diverse views from different individuals or stakeholders. It is therefore necessary for every decision-maker to be aware of such conflicts. This knowledge will make it possible for the person to make the most appropriate decision that is in accordance with every ethical principle.

If I was required to address the presented ethical dilemma again, the agreeable fact is that I would come up with the same decision. This is the case because the decision made was guided by my ethical framework. The decision was also informed by a wide range of values and principles that can result in ethical actions (Johnson, 2016). The decision was embraced because it had the potential to address a vice that could threaten the performance of the company or make it impossible to achieve the targeted business goals.

I would follow the same procedure whenever making ethical decisions in the future. My ethical framework has been influenced by numerous experiences, principles, theoretical concepts, and values. The model also focuses on the best outcomes and actions that support my moral character. However, I will go further to identify new decision-making frameworks and theories in order to develop my model much further (Johnson, 2016). This initiative will make it easier for me to address a wide range of ethical problems. The strategy can be used to come up with evidence-based solutions that can fulfill the expectations of the greatest majority.

My thinking about ethical decision-making has developed significantly. The class materials have educated me about the best practices and theoretical approaches that can make it easier for me to make ethical decisions (Mort et al., 2013). I have understood why it is necessary for individuals to have a unique source of motivation or goal. This kind of motivation will always guide me whenever making ethical decisions.

My virtue decision-making framework will definitely make it easier for me to approach complex ethical dilemmas and situations as a professional manner. The framework has made it easier for me to understand that all ethical dilemmas (both simple and complex) should be approached based on the source of motivation (Johnson, 2016). Since my motivation is to do the right thing and develop my personal character, I will always be focusing on the most appropriate outcomes that can meet the needs of the greatest majority. This strategy will guide me to make complex ethical decisions in my future life.

Ajunwa, I., Crawford, K., & Ford, J. (2016). Health and big data: An ethical framework for health information collection by corporate wellness programs. Journal of Law, Medicine and Ethics, 44 (1), 474-480. Web.

Dondorp, W., & Lith, J. (2015). Dynamics of prenatal screening: New developments challenging the ethical framework. Bioethics, 29 (1), 2-6. Web.

Johnson, C. (2016). Organizational ethics: A practical approach (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.

Mort, M., Roberts, C., Pols, J., Domenech, M., & Moser, I. (2013). Ethical implications of home telecare for older people: A framework derived from a multisited participative study. Health Expectations, 18 (1), 438-449. Web.

Pollard, C. (2015). What is the right thing to do: Use of a relational ethic framework to guide clinical decision-making . International Journal of Caring Sciences, 8 (2), 362-368. Web.

Spector, J. (2016). Ethics in educational technology: Towards a framework for ethical decision making in and for the discipline. Education Technology Research and Development, 64 (1), 1003-1011. Web.

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Essay about Ethical Decision Making

Ethical decision-making is the process of choosing between various options, where the choices are guided by ethical principles and values. This essay explores the foundational rules of ethical decision-making, the possible and ideal ground rules, the implications of such decisions, and the application of a personal ethical framework to a difficult decision in my life. We will delve into the significance of ethics in decision-making processes and speculate on potential improvements for the future.

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List of Essays

What are the ground rules, what are the ethical implications of the decision, professional and public perception, legal and environmental consequences, integrity and self-worth, empathy as a guiding principle, the imperative of respect, pursuit of fairness and justice, ethical integrity in practice, applying a different decision-making process in the future, sample of an outline for essay on ethical decision making.

Ground rules in ethical decision-making are the basic principles that guide our actions and judgments. These principles form the moral bedrock upon which we build our choices, and they are essential in establishing a sense of trust and order within society. Honesty demands that we adhere to the truth and present information in a clear and unambiguous manner. Integrity compels us to maintain our moral convictions consistently, even when faced with personal or professional challenges. Fairness requires that we distribute benefits and burdens equitably, recognizing the inherent dignity and rights of all individuals. Respect is about acknowledging the worth of every person and their viewpoints, ensuring that we treat others as we would wish to be treated. Lastly, responsibility involves recognizing the impact of our actions on others and the environment, obliging us to take accountability for the outcomes we create.

Every decision has ethical implications that can significantly impact individuals, communities, and the environment. Ethical decisions can enhance or harm reputations, influence public perception, and either build or erode trust. They can also have legal consequences and affect one's sense of self-worth and integrity.

Every decision has ethical implications that can significantly impact individuals and communities. Ethical decisions have the potential to affirm personal rights and well-being or, conversely, compromise them. They shape not only immediate personal outcomes but also influence the broader social fabric. The ripple effects of these decisions can foster trust and social cohesion or lead to discord and a decline in communal trust.

In the professional sphere, the ethical implications of a decision can enhance or harm reputations. They shape public perception and have the potential to either build a reputation for integrity or erode it. This is particularly critical in an era where information is rapidly disseminated, and public opinion is swiftly formed.

Decisions carry legal consequences and have a direct bearing on one's adherence to societal rules and regulations. Moreover, they can have a profound environmental impact, contributing either to the sustainability of our planet or to ecological challenges.

At the core of the ethical implications is the concept of integrity. Decisions that are made with ethical consideration reinforce one's sense of self-worth and integrity. They contribute to an internal sense of moral alignment, which is integral to personal identity and self-esteem. Conversely, unethical decisions can lead to an internal moral conflict and undermine one's self-regard.

Central to my ethical stance is empathy, a deliberate practice that enables me to comprehend and consider the impact of my actions on others. It transcends emotional reaction, fostering a deeper connection with those around me and ensuring a compassionate approach to decision-making.

Respect is imperative in my code of ethics. Treating individuals with dignity, honoring their autonomy, and valuing their worth are acts of engagement that form the respectful approach I uphold in my interactions.

Fairness and justice are the scales on which I weigh my actions, seeking equity and righteousness beyond the confines of law. They demand personal accountability and a dedication to an equitable application of ethical standards.

In essence, my ethical framework is about integrity. It is a living philosophy, protective and introspective, requiring continuous self-honesty and an open-minded pursuit of knowledge. It shapes not just my decisions, but my aspiration to contribute positively to the world, affirming a commitment to growth and ethical living.

In anticipation of future ethical dilemmas, I'm resolved to augment my decision-making process by weaving in principles of virtue ethics to highlight moral character, alongside the practical wisdom of pragmatism. This enriched approach promises a more comprehensive consideration of the nuances of right action, fostering decisions that not only resolve dilemmas but also contribute to personal and societal moral growth.

A structured outline for an essay on ethical decision-making might include:

• Introduction to ethical decision-making
• Exploration of current and potential ground rules
• Discussion on ideal ethical ground rules
• Examination of the implications of ethical decisions
• Presentation of a personal ethical framework
• Reflection on a difficult ethical decision
• Application and assessment of the personal ethical framework
• Consideration of diverse decision-making processes
• Conclusion summarizing the key points

In conclusion, ethical decision-making is an essential aspect of human interaction and society. Establishing ground rules, understanding their implications, and applying a personal ethical framework are key to navigating complex moral landscapes. As we grow and learn, our ethical decision-making processes must also evolve, adopting a more inclusive and reflective approach to ensure decisions are fair, just, and beneficial for all involved.

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Essay 2: Personal Ethics and Decision Making

by cnr5112 | Nov 18, 2014

According to the New Oxford American Dictionary, ethics is defined as “moral principles that govern a person’s or group’s behavior.” Therefore, in an ideal world, ethics should play the ultimate role when making a decision. If ethics are the principles which guides one’s behavior then, ideally, all decisions should be made entirely based on ethics. Unfortunately, such is not always the case.

A few problems arise when one tries to make an ethical decision, especially as a leader. First, ethics may mean different things to different people. For example, my religious and spiritual beliefs are the foundation for what I deem ethical. However, for someone else, ethics might be based on laws or their own personal understanding of what is right or wrong. Generally, I do believe there are some behaviors that all can agree upon as being ethical or unethical. For example, most people understand that stealing from someone or murder is wrong. However, it is difficult, at times, to have similar ethical expectations of others as one does of themselves because of these differences in the understanding of ethics. Additionally, there are times when it might be easier for a leader to make an unethical decision for an immediate gain or to appease the wants of others. Examples of these include leaders who embezzle money or use other schemes to make money quickly or unlawfully.

For most leaders, making ethical decisions tends to be the goal. I firmly believe that more often than not, leaders do make ethical decisions for the betterment of their organization or business. There are cases when making an unethical decision might be easier, but the true character of a leader is tested when they are confronted with such a decision. Making the easier decision is not always the best decision for a leader’s personal sake or for the organization/business. Recognizing that not all decisions are ethical, one’s moral principles acts as a guide for their behavior and decision making. Therefore, ethics do (and should) play a major role in decision making.

As previously mentioned, my religious and spiritual beliefs shape my personal ethics. I grew up in a very Christian family (one grandfather was a pastor and the other is a deacon), so from a young age, I was instilled with a belief in God and His teachings, according to the Bible. As I get older, I am learning that a spiritual journey and relationship with God is one that is personal and cannot be easily taught or given by others. Therefore, I will admit that as I continue on my personal journey with God, my personal ethics are still being developed and shaped. Some behaviors that I may have thought were acceptable in the past, I no longer view the same. For example, I have a lot of passion for the organizations I am involved with, especially S.M.A.R.T, which is great as a leader. It is my passion which keeps me dedicated to the organization. However, because of this passion, when things are not going as I want them to, it might cause me to communicate in a way that is considered disrespectful to others. Either my tone, the loudness of my voice, or the things that I say have made others feel disrespected. Personally, I find disrespecting others to be unethical. Although I may not consciously decide to disrespect them, it is a result of my behavior. While, at one point, I made excuses for my “lashing out” but considering it my “burning passion for the organization,” I now realize that it is unacceptable. As a leader, and person, I should be always aim to be respectful of others, regardless of my own feelings. Moreover, I was able to recognize the impact that my behavior was having on other members of my executive board – they, too, began to think it was okay to conduct themselves in a similar manner.

My personal ethics include values such as: respect, honesty, caring, and fairness. When making a decision, I tend to consider these four values the most, in conjunction with how my decision might better the organization. The goal, for me, is to always aid in making an organization or someone else better. These four values tend to help me ensure that my decisions are well-rounded and ethical. I have already alluded to the role respect plays in my decision making. I consider how I might communicate a decision, or I consider other aspects of people’s lives and how this decision might impact them. I try to ensure that all of my decisions are respectful to others. I also aim to always be honest in my decision making. When I need help, I ask for it. I try to be as transparent as possible about any decision I have made and why. I am always willing to share my reasoning and am open to feedback from others. My compassionate side also comes out when making a decision. In most instances, I really try to consider the needs and circumstances of others. For example, S.M.A.R.T. can be a demanding organization, so when making decisions, I always consider the others aspects of our member’s lives and how my decisions could be more of a burden than a help to them. Lastly, I try to make sure my decisions are fair for everyone involved. If I want to inconvenience or be unfair to anyone, I would rather it be myself than someone else.

Communication is key in relation to personal ethics. As previously mentioned, ethical standards differ for different people. Therefore, I find it most difficult to try to understand the reasoning of others’ ethics, rather than communicating my own. I tend to be a very direct person. I get straight to the point, especially as a leader. Therefore, I simply share with others what I believe and value. I also communicate my personal ethics through my actions. If my decisions are made according to my ethical beliefs, then others should be able to recognize, through my behavior, what my personal morals are.

Overall, being an ethical decision maker is important to me. As a leader, I understand that I play a part in establishing what is considered right and wrong, based on my actions and decisions. My hope is to always be an example, and being ethical is the foundation of setting a good example for others. The old adage, “actions speak louder than words” rings true in relation to ethics. I aim to show people what my moral principles are based on my actions. At times, it can get difficult because I might let emotions cloud my judgment, but after all, doing the right thing for the sake of others is most important to me.

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More about Ethical Decision Making Essay

Related topics.

• Business ethics
• Immanuel Kant
• Decision making

Ethical Decision Making: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Ethical decision making is analyzing a situation and applying a moral principle to determine the best course of action. The process can be used in various positions, from everyday decisions to complex legal and business issues. Ethical decision making is an essential skill for all individuals. Still, it is necessary for those in leadership positions or those responsible for making decisions that affect the lives of others.

The process of ethical decision making begins with identifying the moral issue or dilemma. It involves looking at the facts of the situation, considering the various stakeholders involved, and analyzing the possible consequences of multiple courses of action. Considering the ethical principles that apply to the case and the decision’s potential implications is essential.

Once the ethical issue has been identified, the next step is to evaluate the various courses of action available. It involves looking at each possible activity’s potential costs and benefits and considering the ethical principles that apply to the situation. It is essential to view all available options , even if some may seem more difficult or uncomfortable.

The final step in ethical decision making is deciding on the best course of action. This decision should be based on the information gathered and analyzed during the process. Once the best course of action has been determined, it is essential to take the necessary steps to ensure it is implemented.

Ethical decision making is an essential skill that all individuals should strive to develop. It is important to remember that decisions made with ethical principles will often lead to better outcomes than those made without considering the ethical implications. By becoming familiar with the process of ethical decision making, individuals can make better choices and help to create a better world.

Table of Contents

Definition of Ethical Decision Making

Ethical decision making is a process of evaluating and deciding on a course of action that is consistent with ethical principles and values. It involves considering the pros and cons of different options and making decisions that will benefit the stakeholders involved. It also consists of assessing an action’s potential consequences and the impact it may have on others.

Benefits of Ethically Making Decisions

• Increased trust in the organization: Making ethical decisions builds trust amongst employees, customers, and other stakeholders, as they can be confident that the company is committed to doing the right thing.
• Improved reputation: Companies that make ethical decisions are often viewed more favorably than those that do not, leading to an improved public image and increased brand loyalty.
• Improved employee morale: Employees who know that their company is committed to making ethical decisions can be more satisfied and motivated in their work, as they can be confident that their efforts are contributing to something meaningful.
• Increased profits: Companies that prioritize ethical decision making are often rewarded with higher investment yields and returns.
• Better legal protection: Companies that make ethical decisions are less likely to face legal or regulatory issues, which can help protect them from costly fines or penalties.
• Increased customer satisfaction: Customers who know that the company they are dealing with is committed to ethical decision making are likely to be more satisfied with their purchase, leading to increased loyalty and repeat purchases.
• Increased innovation: Companies that make ethical decisions are often more willing to take risks and try new things, leading to increased creativity and innovation.
• More sustainable operations: Companies that prioritize are likely to be more mindful of the environment, leading to more sustainable processes and better long-term outcomes.
• Improved relationships with suppliers and partners: Companies that prioritize ethical decision making can build strong relationships with their suppliers and partners, as they can trust each other to do the right thing.
• Access to better talent: Companies that prioritize are often more attractive to potential hires, as they can be confident that they are joining a company that values doing the right thing.

Steps in Ethical Decision Making

• Identify the issue: Clearly define the ethical issue that needs to be addressed.
• Gather information: Research the situation to understand the specific ethical problem better.
• Identify all stakeholders: Identify everyone affected by or interested in the ethical dilemma.
• Identify ethical alternatives: Research and brainstorm potential solutions to the moral problem.
• Weigh the consequences: Evaluate the potential effects of each ethical alternative.
• Make a decision: Choose the ethical alternative that best fits your values and has the most favorable outcome.
• Implement the solution: Take action and implement the chosen ethical solution.
• Evaluate the outcome: Monitor the results of the ethical decision to determine if it was successful.
• Reflect and learn: Reflect on the ethical decision-making process and learn from the experience.

Collect and Analyze the Facts

The first step in ethical decision making is to collect and analyze the facts. It involves gathering information from various sources and looking at the situation from multiple perspectives. It is essential to consider all relevant facts and views before deciding. It includes gathering information from stakeholders, researching applicable laws and regulations, and examining the ethical implications of different courses of action.

• Identify Stakeholders: The next step is to identify all stakeholders involved. It includes everyone who might be affected by the decision, such as customers, employees, shareholders, suppliers, and the community at large. Consider the potential impact the decision might have on each stakeholder.
• Weigh the Options: Once all relevant facts and stakeholders have been identified, it is time to weigh the options. It involves carefully considering each possible course of action’s pros and cons and evaluating which will result in the most ethical outcome.
• Make the Decision: The final step in the process is to make the decision. It involves committing to a course of action and determining how to implement it. It is essential to consider the decision’s potential impact on all stakeholders and any legal or ethical implications.
• Follow Through: Once the decision has been made, it is essential to follow through. It includes taking the necessary steps to ensure that the decision is implemented promptly and effectively. It is also crucial to monitor the results of the decision and make any necessary adjustments.
• Review and Reflect: The last step in ethical decision making is to review and reflect. It involves taking the time to look back on the decision-making process and reflecting on what worked and what could have been done differently. It allows us to learn from our mistakes and improve our decision-making in the future.

We can ensure that ethical decisions are made most responsibly by following these steps collecting and analyzing facts, identifying stakeholders, weighing the options, deciding, following through, and reviewing and reflecting.

Identify Stakeholders

Ethical decision-making stakeholders can include any group affected by the decision being made. Examples of stakeholders include employees, shareholders, customers, suppliers, regulators, and the local community. Each stakeholder has different interests and needs that should be considered when making an ethical decision. It is essential to ensure that all stakeholders are included in the decision-making process, as their input can help ensure that the decision is ethical and beneficial to all involved.

Weigh the Consequences

The process of ethical decision making involves weighing the consequences of each action and course of action. It means that when faced with a moral dilemma, one must consider the potential outcomes of each decision before making a final choice. This process involves taking into account the immediate effects of the decision and the long-term implications for all stakeholders. This process requires an individual to consider each decision’s potential cost and benefit and its impact on the greater good . It is essential to view the potential harm caused by a decision and the possible use that could be realized. The process of weighing the consequences of a decision is a difficult one. Still, it is essential to making an ethical decision.

Consider the Alternatives

When making ethical decisions, it is essential to consider all available alternatives. Alternatives should be evaluated on their potential to promote the common good, respect human dignity, and promote justice. When considering possible choices, it is essential to weigh the consequences of each option and the potential impact it could have on those affected. For example, suppose a company is considering cutting costs. In that case, it is essential to consider its potential impact on employees, customers, and other stakeholders. Additionally, it is necessary to consider the possible environmental effects of any decisions.

It is also essential to consider the ethical obligations of the decision-maker. Ethical decision-making requires that a person feel their values and principles and how they may be affected by their decisions. It requires a deeper level of reflection and an understanding that all ethical decisions have a ripple effect on society.

Finally, it is essential to consider the potential legal consequences of any decision. Even if a decision is ethical, it may still be illegal or violate specific regulations. It is essential to make sure that any decisions comply with applicable laws and regulations.

In summary, when making ethical decisions, it is essential to consider all available alternatives and evaluate their potential to promote the common good , respect human dignity, and promote justice. Additionally, it is necessary to consider the ethical obligations of the decision-maker and the potential legal consequences of any decision.

Reach a Decision

The process of ethical decision making involves several steps. First, identify the moral problem or dilemma. Consider the ethical implications of the decision and its potential consequences. Gather relevant information and research the facts. Analyze the situation to determine what values conflict. Consider the perspectives of all parties involved. Identify possible solutions and evaluate each one. Choose the solution that best serves the interests of all parties and is consistent with the values and principles you identified. Explain your decision and the reasons behind it. Finally, communicate your decision and the rationale for it to all those affected by it.

Examples of Top 10 Ethical Decision Making

• The Five-Step Process for Making Ethical Decisions: https://www.scu.edu /ethics/focus-areas/decision-making/five-step-process/
• Ethical Decision Making: A Process Guide: https://www.scu.edu /ethics/focus-areas/decision-making/ethical-decision-making-a-process-guide/
• Making Ethical Decisions: https://ethics.org/ making-ethical-decisions/
• Making Ethical Decisions: A Guide for Managers: https://hbr.org /2008/02/making-ethical-decisions-a-guide-for-managers
• Ethical Decision Making Toolkit: https://www.ethics.org /ethical-decision-making-toolkit/
• Making Ethical Decisions in the Workplace: https://www.focalpointcoaching.com /blog/how-to-make-ethical-decisions-in-the-workplace
• Making Ethical Decisions: https://www.apa.org /ethics/decision-making/making-ethical-decisions
• A Guide to Making Ethical Decisions: https://www.ethicalsystems.org /content/a-guide-to-making-ethical-decisions
• Ethical Decision-Making: https://www.apa.org /ed/precollege/ptn/2020/02/ethical-decision-making
• Ethical Decision Making: https://www.diversitymeansbusiness.org /resources/ethical-decision-making/

Ethical decision making involves considering the ethical implications of a decision before acting on it. It consists of understanding and applying ethical behavior principles, such as fairness, respect, and honesty. It also involves assessing the potential consequences of the decision and understanding the implications for stakeholders affected by it. It requires considering the perspectives of different stakeholders, including individuals, organizations, and society. It also requires considering the legal and moral implications of the decision. Finally, It requires individuals to learn from their experiences and make decisions that are in the best interests of everyone involved.

Key Takeaways

• Consider the Consequences: Before making an ethical decision, it is essential to consider the potential consequences of your decision. Think through the likely outcomes of your decision, both positive and negative, and consider how they may impact those involved.
• Analyze the Situation: Take the time to review the facts and circumstances related to the ethical dilemma. Evaluate the situation from multiple angles and consider how the decision may affect different stakeholders.
• Seek Advice: Consult with trusted colleagues or ethics professionals to gain additional insight and clarity. Different perspectives help you make a more informed choice.
• Stay True to Your Values: Ultimately, you must make the decision that best aligns with your values and beliefs. Consider your choices and decisions so you can stand behind them in the long term.
• Document Your Decision: Once you have made an ethical decision, document your choice and its rationale. It will help to ensure that your decision is transparent and defensible.

Ethical decision making involves making decisions based on values such as integrity, respect for human rights , fairness, and social responsibility. To make ethical decisions, individuals must use critical thinking to weigh the various options available and consider the potential consequences of each. It is important to remember that is not a one-size-fits-all approach, as each situation is unique and requires careful consideration. Ultimately, It requires that individuals consider the implications of their decisions on all stakeholders involved and make decisions that are in the best interest of all parties involved.

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7 Ways to Improve Your Ethical Decision-Making

• 03 Aug 2023

Effective decision-making is the cornerstone of any thriving business. According to a survey of 760 companies cited in the Harvard Business Review , decision effectiveness and financial results correlated at a 95 percent confidence level across countries, industries, and organization sizes.

Yet, making ethical decisions can be difficult in the workplace and often requires dealing with ambiguous situations.

If you want to become a more effective leader , here’s an overview of why ethical decision-making is important in business and how to be better at it.

Access your free e-book today.

The Importance of Ethical Decision-Making

Any management position involves decision-making .

“Even with formal systems in place, managers have a great deal of discretion in making decisions that affect employees,” says Harvard Business School Professor Nien-hê Hsieh in the online course Leadership, Ethics, and Corporate Accountability . “This is because many of the activities companies need to carry out are too complex to specify in advance.”

This is where ethical decision-making comes in. As a leader, your decisions influence your company’s culture, employees’ motivation and productivity, and business processes’ effectiveness.

It also impacts your organization’s reputation—in terms of how customers, partners, investors, and prospective employees perceive it—and long-term success.

With such a large portion of your company’s performance relying on your guidance, here are seven ways to improve your ethical decision-making.

1. Gain Clarity Around Personal Commitments

You may be familiar with the saying, “Know thyself.” The first step to including ethics in your decision-making process is defining your personal commitments.

To gain clarity around those, Hsieh recommends asking:

• What’s core to my identity? How do I perceive myself?
• What lines or boundaries will I not cross?
• What kind of life do I want to live?
• What type of leader do I want to be?

Once you better understand your core beliefs, values, and ideals, it’s easier to commit to ethical guidelines in the workplace. If you get stuck when making challenging decisions, revisit those questions for guidance.

2. Overcome Biases

A bias is a systematic, often unconscious inclination toward a belief, opinion, perspective, or decision. It influences how you perceive and interpret information, make judgments, and behave.

Bias is often based on:

• Personal experience
• Cultural background
• Social conditioning
• Individual preference

It exists in the workplace as well.

“Most of the time, people try to act fairly, but personal beliefs or attitudes—both conscious and subconscious—affect our ability to do so,” Hsieh says in Leadership, Ethics, and Corporate Accountability .

There are two types of bias:

• Explicit: A bias you’re aware of, such as ageism.
• Implicit: A bias that operates outside your awareness, such as cultural conditioning.

Whether explicit or implicit, you must overcome bias to make ethical, fair decisions.

Related: How to Overcome Stereotypes in Your Organization

3. Reflect on Past Decisions

The next step is reflecting on previous decisions.

“By understanding different kinds of bias and how they can show themselves in the workplace, we can reflect on past decisions, experiences, and emotions to help identify problem areas,” Hsieh says in the course.

Reflect on your decisions’ processes and the outcomes. Were they favorable? What would you do differently? Did bias affect them?

Through analyzing prior experiences, you can learn lessons that help guide your ethical decision-making.

4. Be Compassionate

Decisions requiring an ethical lens are often difficult, such as terminating an employee.

“Termination decisions are some of the hardest that managers will ever have to make,” Hsieh says in Leadership, Ethics, and Corporate Accountability . “These decisions affect real people with whom we often work every day and who are likely to depend on their job for their livelihood.”

Such decisions require a compassionate approach. Try imagining yourself in the other person’s shoes, and think about what you would want to hear. Doing so allows you to approach decision-making with more empathy.

5. Focus on Fairness

Being “fair” in the workplace is often ambiguous, but it’s vital to ethical decision-making.

“Fairness is not only an ethical response to power asymmetries in the work environment,” Hsieh says in Leadership, Ethics, and Corporate Accountability . “Fairness–and having a successful organizational culture–can benefit the organization economically and legally as well.”

It’s particularly important to consider fairness in the context of your employees. According to Leadership, Ethics, and Corporate Accountability , operationalizing fairness in employment relationships requires:

• Legitimate expectations: Expectations stemming from a promise or regular practice that employees can anticipate and rely on.
• Procedural fairness: Concern with whether decisions are made and carried out impartially, consistently, and transparently.
• Distributive fairness: The fair allocation of opportunities, benefits, and burdens based on employees’ efforts or contributions.

Keeping these aspects of fairness in mind can be the difference between a harmonious team and an employment lawsuit. When in doubt, ask yourself: “If I or someone I loved was at the receiving end of this decision, what would I consider ‘fair’?”

6. Take an Individualized Approach

Not every employee is the same. Your relationships with team members, managers, and organizational leaders differ based on factors like context and personality types.

“Given the personal nature of employment relationships, your judgment and actions in these areas will often require adjustment according to each specific situation,” Hsieh explains in Leadership, Ethics, and Corporate Accountability .

One way to achieve this is by tailoring your decision-making based on employees’ values and beliefs. For example, if a colleague expresses concerns about a project’s environmental impact, explore eco-friendly approaches that align with their values.

Another way you can customize your ethical decision-making is by accommodating employees’ cultural differences. Doing so can foster a more inclusive work environment and boost your team’s performance .

7. Accept Feedback

Ethical decision-making is susceptible to gray areas and often met with dissent, so it’s critical to be approachable and open to feedback .

The benefits of receiving feedback include:

• Learning from mistakes.
• Having more opportunities to exhibit compassion, fairness, and transparency.
• Identifying blind spots you weren’t aware of.
• Bringing your team into the decision-making process.

While such conversations can be uncomfortable, don’t avoid them. Accepting feedback will not only make you a more effective leader but also help your employees gain a voice in the workplace.

Ethical Decision-Making Is a Continuous Learning Process

Ethical decision-making doesn’t come with right or wrong answers—it’s a continuous learning process.

“There often is no right answer, only imperfect solutions to difficult problems,” Hsieh says. “But even without a single ‘right’ answer, making thoughtful, ethical decisions can make a major difference in the lives of your employees and colleagues.”

By taking an online course, such as Leadership, Ethics, and Corporate Accountability , you can develop the frameworks and tools to make effective decisions that benefit all aspects of your business.

Ready to improve your ethical decision-making? Enroll in Leadership, Ethics, and Corporate Accountability —one of our online leadership and management courses —and download our free e-book on how to become a more effective leader.

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Ethical Decision Making and Cases Essay (Critical Writing)

Introduction, ethical codes and standards, monitoring, auditing, and reporting misconduct, section to review ethical training programs and standards.

Ferrell, Fraedrich & Ferrell (2008) discuss that organizations are shifting from “legally based compliance initiatives in organizations to cultural initiatives that make ethics a part of core organizational values” (p. 10).

This means that firms are changing from need to enforce ethical standards to motivating workers to make ethical codes their habitual behavior. However, legal action is still necessary where employees fail to act in an ethical manner.

The consultant consists of 15 members according to the above structure. The consultant sections can decide to give a member specific areas to tackle. All members meet once a week to update on matters that are arising, and finding solutions to challenges.

Ethical standards require that organizations acknowledge their contributors. The agreements between the donors and the organization should be written, and adhered to. Some donors may prefer being anonymous to prevent further solicitation from other organizations (Ethics in Fundraising, 2013).

Some companies may have a business motive when funding nonprofit organizations. They use it as a marketing strategy. The nonprofit organizations may refuse funds from firms that associate funding with marketing their brands.

They can recommend that the anonymity of the donor be used. Nonprofit organizations will have the freedom to solicit funds from private firms to increase their areas of service.

It is unethical to pay fundraisers a percentage of the funds raised. Nonprofit organizations are encouraged to adopt the Donors’ Bill of Rights drafted by the Association for Fundraising Professionals (Ethics in Fundraising, 2013).

Ethical standards require that that those with a conflict of interest with the organization to reveal that interest. They should withdraw from voting on any matters that are associated with their area of interest. Staff members are encouraged to discuss how to solve conflicts of interest (Conflict of Interest, 2013).

The best ethical practices will require non-profit organizations to gradually adopt the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. It requires that organizations have an independent audit committee or hire an independent financial expert to carry out auditing. It has clauses about whistle-blower protection among others (Ostrower & Bobowick, 2006).

There is a need to retain official documents for a period in which a lawsuit can be brought forward regarding the conduct of the nonprofit organization (Document Retention Policies, 2013).

The public should be allowed access to relevant documents about “meeting agendas and descriptions of significant decisions” (Transparency and Accountability, 2013 para. 3).

Nonprofit organizations should adopt a mechanism that avoids providing services that are already catered for by other organizations. The provision of services should comply with fairness and equity practices.

The firm’s auditing procedure will seek to answer the questions put forward by Ferrell, Fraedrich, & Ferrell (2008, p. 181) about the evaluation of ethical culture. This can be done through face-to-face interviews with the employees of the non-profit organizations that the consultant represent.

The employees can fill-in questionnaires with the need to indicate their name being optional. Our organization can also use codes so that in case of a need to verify data collected, they can re-visit the respondents.

The design of some of the questions should be indirect to avoid personal rivalry being used to taint the management or senior staff members.

The interviews and questionnaires will try to find out if the managers themselves follow the ethical codes of drafted by the consultant. They will check the number of employees that have used the anonymous reporting of misconduct option.

Less reporting may indicate that the organization has successfully integrated an ethical culture or the employees do not trust the systems of reporting. Employees can avoid reporting misconduct because they fear retaliation from their workplace colleagues and supervisors (Ferrell, Fraedrich, & Ferrell, 2008).

The audit will look into the corrective actions that were used by the management team. This should be different from the legal actions that are used to enforce ethical conduct unless the misconduct reaches a certain level of seriousness such as sexual harassment.

When trying to make it an ethics culture, there is a need to prepare individual minds to accept ethical codes beyond the mandatory ones enforced by law.

The auditing procedure will check that unethical behavior is publicly disapproved. The existence of rewards for exemplary ethical decisions will indicate the progressive integration of an ethical culture. A firm with an ethical culture is more concerned about the long-term benefits of their programs than the immediate benefits.

There should be openness and freedom of expression when discussing ethical dilemmas. The superior staff members should freely allow subordinates to express their views (Ferrell, Fraedrich & Ferrell, 2008).

The organizations should be “more externally focused on customers, the environment, and the welfare of the society” (Ferrell, Fraedrich, & Ferrell, 2008 p. 181). According to Ferrell, Fraedrich, & Ferrell (2008), audited organizations can be put into four ranks.

The components used are their care for people and for performance. Caring for people is the highest rank for nonprofit organizations. An integrative culture shows concern for both performance and people. An apathetic culture would require the management team to review its policies.

Ferrell, Fraedrich, & Ferrell (2008) discuss that personal ethical behavior has no guarantee that a staff member will maintain ethical codes and standards. There is need to train members on codes of ethics that are enforced by law, and those that belong to specific organizations.

The training will extend to teaching the workers to use their moral philosophy in cases where there are no written guidelines. Ferrell, Fraedrich, & Ferrell (2008) discuss that “caring culture exhibits high concern for people but minimal concern for performance issues” (p. 178). Nonprofit organizations may choose members of staff to be trained as an ethics committee.

The training programs can work through training ethical committees. The committee will afterwards develop an ethical culture in their organization. Another option is that organizations under consideration should set a standard code that requires members of staff to attend our classes at least once every three months.

Our consultant will organize continous training programs throughout the year. Some of the programs will be conducted at individual organizations’ premises. Others will require organizations to send some of their workers. This is to ensure that services to the public do not stop because of training.

The section will constitute of the head of consultant, and two members who are in the global ethical culture section. They will propose the inclusion of new codes of ethics, design of training programs, and new ethical standards emerging around the world that may be considered for integration.

The first code of ethics will be the need to spend the funds provided in the areas in which the funds were asked for, and respect of donor objectives. There should be a limit to the level of expenditure that goes to areas that are not core to serving the public.

For example, if the funds are to distribute food, the amount spent on employees, stores and offices should have a limited percentage. This will ensure that funds serve the intended purpose by a big margin. When funds decrease, it will necessary to lay off some workers because of reduced workload.

Close some of the stores and offices. The remaining space should be necessary to maintain the same percentage in allocation of funds in target areas. They may also consider the extent to which organizations utilize volunteers.

The design of training programs will be updated according to effectiveness of the program for a period of six months. Training will incorporate the advisory section to explain some of the implications of unethical behavior in a court of law.

The legal advisory section will work closely with management teams of the organization served by the consultant. On the other hand, the training team will try to shape attitudes and awareness. The consultant can accept volunteers to work in certain sections to increase performance of the consultant.

Conflict of Interest . (2013). New York, USA: National Council of Nonprofits. Web.

Document Retention Policies . (2013). National Council of Nonprofits. Web.

Ferrell, C. O., Fraedrich, J. & Ferrell, L. (2008). Business Ethics: Ethical Decision Making and Cases. Boston, USA.: Houghton Mifflin Company.

Ethics in Fundraising . (2003). New York, USA: National Council of Nonprofits. Web.

Ostrower, F., & Bobowick, J. M. (2006). Nonprofit Governance and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act . Washington D.C., USA: The Urban Institute. Web.

Transparency and Accountability . (2013). Minnesota, USA: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits. Web.

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Ethical Decision Making Essay

• Author Kimberly Ball
• Category General Essays

Disclaimer: This paper has been submitted by a student. This is not a sample of the work written by professional academic writers.

Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this work are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of StudySaurus.

A good leader considers ethics the backbone of every decision made at a personal level. Such leaders project their values into the decisions they make, thus showing the world that those decisions made encompass their personal values. A person’s personality and identity are held together by their values. It also goes without say that one’s personal values and decision making are intimately connected. A right decision should be aligned with the personal beliefs and morality standards of the individual who makes them. Before making a decision, it is paramount that a person asks himself or herself several questions. Is the decision going to have long-term positive impacts or will it cause harm? Would it make the world a better place? Good leaders make decisions that uplift and encourage others, which don’t cause harm to people or the environment. An individual’s principles, values, and ethics drive the decisions they make as humans. More importantly, as we move up in the society, the decisions we make affect the social environment around us. The manner in which we decide to define our personal ethics both at a personal and organizational level significantly affects our present and the future of the people around us. Ethics can be defined as the moral principles that govern our daily operations depending on what people perceive as right or wrong.

Diversity substantially increases the ethics of decision making. Each person is brought up with a different set of values and worldviews. Therefore, different people tend to come up with differing decisions on what they consider and what they don’t consider ethical. For instance, an individual who values life equally would make decisions that are radically different from those of a person who believes human life is more superior to plant or animal life. Another example would be that of a utilitarian person. Such a person would make decisions for the good of everyone in the society as opposed to helping the few needy cases. The above examples indicate that the decision-making process can be a gray area, with different perceptions of what is right or wrong. Ethics may mean many different things to different people. For instance, for many people, their religious or spiritual beliefs form the basis of their decision making. For others, ethics may be based on their understanding of what is right or wrong. Therefore, it is important to constantly evaluate one’s principles and ethics and try as much as possible always to abide by them.

According to Thiel et al. (2012), personal, situational or environmental constraints can affect a leader’s ability to adequately interpret and come up with the best solution for an ethical dilemma. Personal limitations and schemas can help leaders demystify the complexities of their environment. On the flipside, this selective attention may lead to biased interpretations since the decision maker may overlook certain critical aspects of the situation at hand. Other personal characteristics such as low-ego, external locus of control and law field dependence may impede ethical decision making resulting in erroneous decisions that may be full of bias. Furthermore, researchers posit that personality characteristics such as narcissism can negatively affect ethical decision making.

People from different backgrounds have different norms and values which tend to influence how they make their decisions. These norms are usually embedded in their cultural values which determine what is right or wrong and the interpretation of complex situations. An individual who was instilled with the values of honesty and integrity when growing up will most likely follow ethical decision-making approaches when faced with a situation compared to a person whose background and upbringing did not stress the importance of such traits. More so, factors embedded in an individual’s personal ethics such as cognitive biases may impact the outcome of the decision-making process. Cognitive biases influence individuals to over rely on past experiences or expected outcomes while dismissing data or outcomes that are perceived as uncertain hence losing the bigger picture. Apart from cognitive biases, another influence on decision making is personal relevance. When people believe that a decision making process solely lies on them, they tend to take the wheel. Jones (2001) argues that people will tend to vote more readily when they believe that their opinion is aligned with that of the compact majority.

Making decisions in an organization occurs at all levels. Different approaches to decision making should be taken depending on the situation at hand. While the basic principles governing decision making are the same, many tools and techniques can be adopted by different organizations. One such a technique is referred to as self-reflection. When leaders are faced with a complex situation, they may infer to their personal experiences to address the situation effectively. Researchers argue that reflection on both personal and learned experiences significantly affect decision making. Some researchers belong to the school of thought that self-awareness or self-regulation tends to lessen personal influences on human behavior when making decisions. This technique of decision making is particularly useful when a leader is faced with a complex situation. The pressures associated with complex situations impede leaders’ ability to draw upon past experiences and self-reflect. Therefore, self-reflection can enhance a leader’s ability to make ethical decisions by drawing insight from past experiences. While reflecting on past experiences improves a leader’s ability to make ethical decisions, making informed predictions of the future by assessing the current situation also helps in solving complex situations. This technique is referred to as forecasting. Worthwhile to mention, self-reflection and forecasting are intertwined concepts since self-reflection is always a fundamental process to solving complex situations in the future. By forecasting, leaders can predict the consequences of their decisions and the associated implications in the future.

A decision matrix is a tool that is used to evaluate all the possible options of a decision. Under this method, a table is created with two columns, the first column representing all the available options and the second one representing all the factors that affect the respective options in the first table. Factors of more importance are then weighed, and a score is given to ascertain which option is ideal for the problem at hand. One of the simplest decision-making technique that has proved indispensable in solving ethical dilemmas is multi-voting. It begins with a round of voting whereby the members of the decision team cast their votes for the shortlisted options. The options with the highest number of cast votes are taken to the next round, and the process is repeated until the final decision is agreed upon. Another effective tool is the nominal group technique. Under this approach, the team divides itself into different groups and generates solutions to the complex situation. The participants further discuss the shortlisted options to narrow down on their choices. The groups then compare their options and vote on the best possible choice. The option that wins the most votes is accepted as the group’s decision.

A classic example of an infamous case that exemplifies poor and unethical decision making is the Ford Pinto case. This was a car model produced in the 90s that were notorious for its rear end collisions to cause a leak in fuel and burst into flames. At least twenty people lost their lives in such tragic incidences before the firm decided to recall all cars sold to solve the problem. A detailed look into this case revealed that at that time, Ford was under intense competition from rival car manufacturing firms such as Volkswagen. Therefore, the firm had rushed the car into production. In fact, engineers had brought to light the potential danger in the production process but the company officials decided to overlook the problem and proceed (Hoffman et al., 2014). This reveals the greed, callousness, and unethicality of the firm in matters that could mean the death of its customers. On the contrary, looking at the situation from a modern lens-one that sheds light on how cognitive biases distort ethical decision making- may help understand the reason why the firm decided to adopt the mentioned approach. By adopting an approach considered as rational in any business school curricula, the firm conducted a cost-benefit analysis and established that it would be cheaper to pay the lawsuits that to redesign the car entirely. The methodology followed depicted how they argued and reached their choice. The moral aspect of their choice was not in their equation. This approach took ethics out of the question thus increasing the chances of unethical behavior in business practice. Dissecting Pinto’s case decades after it occurred reveals a pattern that evidently continues to recur in organizations. Organizational and psychological factors swayed the company officials from the ethical dimension of the problem. However, the field of ethical decision making has substantially grown and managers in decision-making positions are nowadays in a better position to understand how their personal biases can generate skewed decisions and obscure the real problem from view.

A decision maker using the consequentialist decision-making approach would have assessed the consequences that would have affected the broadest number of people and groups and tailor their decision to reduce harm and ensure that their actions were directed towards the good of the consumers. A decision maker using the deontological approach would have decided not to move on with the production process and recall the car once the fault was identified. This is because the decision maker would base his or her argument based on a set of moral principles. Such an individual would argue for the halting of the production process unless the rights of the consumers using the faulty vehicles could be assured. All in all, the two approaches would have resulted in the recall of all the defective Pintos thus saving the lives of the customers thus avoiding a corporate scandal.

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Ethical Decision-Making

Introduction.

Decision-making is an essential aspect of people’s daily lives because it helps them to confront situations and get the best solutions to problems. When people encounter the term decision-making, their minds immediately go to the decision-making process in the workplace. However, they fail to realize that they make decisions such as which route to take to work or which type of food to eat every day, even without noticing. Every decision has consequences, although the severity varies. For example, if a person decides to quit their work without an alternative, they may experience severe consequences such as losing their home and not being able to take care of their families. It is also essential for people to make ethical decisions. According to Bauer & Erdogan (2009), just because a decision is legal does not make it ethical. This paper will describe my model of making decisions ethically.

My Model of Making Decisions Ethically

My decision-making model depends on the situation at hand. The first way I make decisions is by doing what is right according to my understanding of what is right and wrong. For example, I had a friend in high school who betrayed me and disclosed a secret that I had told them in private, and that news made me the topic of discussion for several days. In return for spreading my secret, my friend became friends with some popular students. I was so angry, and I wanted to reveal some of my friend’s secrets that would destroy him more than he did to me. However, after some thinking, I decided not to reveal his secrets but instead do the right thing because revealing the secrets would have had severe consequences on my friend. Making that decision made me feel good about myself more than I could have felt if I had revealed the secret and destroyed my friend’s life. According to Bauer & Erdogan (2009), asking oneself how one will feel after making the decision is one way to determine whether the decision is ethical. I knew I would not feel good about myself if I destroyed my friend’s life or led him to hurt himself. In situations of crisis or conflict, I tend to make my decision according to what I believe is right based on my understanding of right and wrong from my religion and my knowledge of the concept over the years. I have boundaries I cannot cross, and no matter how angry I feel, I try to restrain myself and lean toward the good even if my alternative does not mean me breaking the law.

The next way I make my decisions is by determining my alternative solutions and analyzing their pros and cons. I use this decision model when making major decisions regarding my life. For example, when I was choosing the college I wanted to attend and what I wanted to study. I looked at different colleges and courses, analyzed them, and chose the course that I was most passionate about. Making significant decisions in my life can be challenging in some instances. In some situations, I take so much time comparing the alternatives’ pros and cons, and sometimes there is no clear picture of the solution that will provide the best results, and one needs to risk. However, my greatest weakness in decision-making is risk-taking because I always want to ensure that the decision I make does not lead to failure. For example, years back, I wanted to start a business, and I put my alternatives on the table. However, it took me so much time to compare the alternatives that it scared me, and I had to abort the plan to open a business. I am working on this weakness, and I have made progress. While using this model, I make sure that I look at the ethical dimension when analyzing the alternative to ensure that the decision I make is ethical.

Decision-making is an essential aspect of people’s everyday lives. People need to strive to make ethical decisions, and avoid only doing things because of their legality. Ignoring ethics can have severe consequences on a person. My decision-making model depends on the situation. In situations of crisis or conflict, I make decisions that are right based on my understanding of right and wrong. When making important decisions regarding my life, I identify my alternatives and analyze their pros and cons. I make sure that I consider the ethical dimension when exploring my options.

Bauer, T., & Erdogan, B. (2009). Organizational behavior (1st ed.). New York: Flat World Knowledge.

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Bibliography

AmCham. (April 2, 2003). Business Ethics as a factor of Country Competitiveness. Country Competitiveness Report.

Arvidson, Ed. (2002). The Wage Wrangle. Fresh Cup Magazine.

Josephson Institute Of Ethics. 2002. "Making Sense of Ethics." Retrieved on the Internet at  http://www.josephsoninstitute.org/MED/MED-1makingsense.htm .

Poznak Law Firm. 2003. "Approaches to Ethical Decision Making." Retrieved on the Internet at  http://www.poznaklaw.com/articles/bizethics.htm .

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Works Cited

Chethik, N. (2003). Redefining fatherhood. By nancy E. dowd. Fathering, 1, 1(1), 107-107.

Craig, M. (2005). Experiencing the Dowd Model. Journal of Ethical Business, 56-78.

Keaney, M. (2010). The radical political economics of douglas F. dowd. Journal of Economics, 34-67.

Sweeting, P.J. (2010). A trend-change extension of the cairns-blake-dowd model. Annals of Actuarial Science, 5(2), 143-162.

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Hinman, Lawrence M. Ethics: A Pluralistic Approach to Moral Theory. Cengage Learning, 2012.

Hitt, Michael A., J. Stewart Black, and Lyman W. Porter. Management. Pearson Education, 2006.

Lawson, Rebecca. Perth Now, "Kimberley gas hub gets nod from EPA ." Last modified July, 16 2012. Accessed August 13, 2012.  http://www.perthnow.com.au/business/browse-gets-nod-from-epa/story-e6frg2r3-1226427146206 .

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The procedure led to brain ischemia. This implies that the brain of Mr. Lee, or a part of it, was damaged. Since Mrs. Annie was an expert and a senior nurse, she could be held responsible for charges of refusing to treat the patient and letting the junior nurses perform the procedure that led to the damage (Royal College of Nursing, 2013).

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Banks, C. (2008). Criminal Justice Ethics: Theory and Practice. CA: Sage.

Maute, J. (2002). "In pursuit of justice" in high profile criminal matters." Fordham Law Review, Vol. 70, Issue 5.

Smith, A. (1998). "Nice work if you can get it": "Ethical" jury selection in criminal defense." Fordham Law Review, Vol. 67, Issue 2.

Ethical Decision Making Media Are

Fidelity is also an obligation, to the journalist's ethics in particular truthtelling. Beneficence could be applied to helping law enforcement. As the decision at hand consists of two mutually exclusive options, one of these obligations would need to be overriding. It is most likely that for the journalist this would be to communicate all of the information in keeping with the journalistic code of ethics. This approach, however, does not represent a resolution of the ethical dilemma so much as it represents a cop-out. The decision as to the absolute obligation is too subjective. If the decision-maker was going to "go with his gut," there was no need to treat the issue as an ethical dilemma in the first place. The notion of an ethical dilemma is given short shrift by a system that argues there is a dilemma but the answer is to do whatever you want and….

Ethical Decision-Making in a Sales Organization

Ethical Decision Making in Sales Organizations The study of marketing, sales and company ethics has a very diverse foundation of empirical and analytical research ranging from gender- and trait-based analysis to the defining of models that seek to capture the dynamics that create ethical paradoxes and drive decision-making in organizations. In the research completed and presented in the article A Framework For Personal Selling and Sales Management Ethical Decision Making (Ferrell, Johnston, Ferrell, 2007) the authors carefully analyze trait-based and situational ethics theories and previous research. The first sections of this well-written and researched article illustrate that trait theories alone cannot explain the spectrum of ethics within sales and marketing departments and their decision-making processes, or provide insights into corporate cultural mindsets with regard to ethics. What the authors do however in this initial section of the article is frame up the foundation of their model, A Framework For Selling And….

Ferrell, O.C., Johnston, M.W., & Ferrell, L. (2007). A framework for personal selling and sales management ethical decision making. The Journal of Personal Selling & Sales Management, 27(4), 291-299.

Joseph, G.W., Pergola, T.M., & Butler, M.G. (2011). All you have to do is rearrange the numbers. Journal of Business Cases and Applications, 4, 1-20.

Martin, C.A. (2012). An empirical examination of the antecedents of ethical intentions in professional selling. Journal of Leadership, Accountability and Ethics, 9(1), 19-26.

Wotruba, T.R. (1990). A comprehensive framework for the analysis of ethical behavior, with a focus on sales organizations. The Journal of Personal Selling & Sales Management, 10(2), 29-29.

Ethical Decision Making in Law

For example, virtually every element of heightened security measures necessitates a corresponding reduction in certain kinds of liberties that American citizens have come to expect in a free society. Both concerns represent rights: it is right to implement measures intended to protect the general public by thwarting potential terrorists; likewise, it is equally right to seek to preserve individual liberties in a society that has been built on valuing those liberties. Erring on the side of the former necessarily entails interfering with personal liberties. Erring on the side of the latter could very well result in the failure to protect the public from terrorism. More generally, administrating police services involves continuously weighing right-versus-right issues. For another example, many police agencies have had to consider the relative value and importance of pursuing fleeing vehicles against the value and importance of public safety in relation to the risks to the public posed….

Fitch, B. "Good Decisions: Tips and Strategies for Avoiding Psychological Traps." FBI

Law Enforcement Bulletin Vol. 79, No. 6 (2010).

Halbert, T. And Ingulli, E. (2008). Law & Ethics in the Business Environment.

Cincinnati: West Legal Studies.

Ethical Decision Making New Year's Eve Crisis

Ethical Decision Making New Year's Eve Crisis The ethical issues related here include the financial health of both Michael's Pasta Company (which now includes Southern Pasta) and of the restaurant chain affected by the tainted products, and the physical health of restaurant patrons. Other ethical issues such as simple honesty and business integrity are also involved in the case details, though they do not really affect the decision to be made. Stakeholders include Michael himself as well as his company(ies) and all employees at under his employment; the restaurant's owners, managers, chefs, and customers; the FDA and other relevant governmental agencies; and eventually the former owners of Southern Pasta. From the previous Southern owner's point-of-view, the damage has been done and clearly a clean escape is being sought, so knowledge of the issues is likely to be disavowed. Michael and his company would like to minimize public knowledge regarding this as it would….

Ethical Decision Making Uustal 1993 Proposed a

Ethical Decision Making: Uustal (1993) proposed a decision-making model that offers tangible steps for arriving at a morally acceptable solution when experiencing an ethical dilemma. Generally, nurses are usually faced with ethical dilemmas that are largely attributed to the nature of their work. One of the ethical dilemmas I have experienced as a nurse in the clinical setting is a situation involving a child diagnosed with brain tumor. Before the diagnosis, the child had been severely sick and went for several days without eating, which increased the severity of his illness. Even though the physicians were doing their best to save the child's life, the family became extremely worried. As a result, his parents gave him marijuana because of their extensive knowledge regarding his medical benefits. While the decision proved beneficial, the faces the risk of experiencing a recurrence of the brain tumor (James, 2011). Uustal's model of decision-making can be applied….

References:

Dahnke, M.D. (n.d.). The Role of the American Nurses Association Code in Ethical Decision

Making. Retrieved September 13, 2013, from  http://www.nursingcenter.com/lnc/static?pageid=864590 

James, S.D. (2011, May 5). Montana Dad Gives Cancer-Stricken Boy Marijuana Behind

Doctor's Back. ABC News. Retrieved September 13, 2013, from  http://abcnews.go.com/Health/montana-father-medical-marijuana-cancer-stricken-toddler-son/story?id=13529490&singlePage=true

Ethical Decision Making by Project Managers

Ethical Decision-Making Issues for a QA Project Manager in the Department of Veterans Affairs Today, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) operates the country's largest healthcare system, and an important part of that system is overseeing the quality of healthcare services that are provided to the nation's veterans. This paper provides the results of a semi-structured, face-to-face interview with Mr. Brad Western, a quality assurance (QA) project manager at a local VA medical center. The structured interview questions and response are followed by a summary of the interview results and the main findings that emerged. How those issues get resolved? The response to this question focused on Mr. Western's role as the medical center's congressional liaison, and the ethical issues that were encountered on a routine basis as well as some special cases. According to Mr. Western, "The most frequent calls I receive from congressional offices concerns the lengthy amount of time required….

Ethical Decision Making for Purposes

279-306) and therefore sets the foundation for the development of an ethical culture in the organization. Finally and most importantly, the product manager must concentrate on those customers served with the appliance and put their well-being, safety and satisfaction above personal gain both from a financial and career recognition standpoint. When the corporate culture, exposure to customers of a potentially unsafe product, and the need for staying in compliance to government regulations are considered, the product manager needs to think first of the ights Approach to ethics as defined by Kant, as in selling any product there is the explicit trust that any product sold is going to perform to the level and safety customers expect. In conjunction with this, the product manager also needs to consider the Utilitarian Approach to ethical decision making, as choosing to ship a product not in compliance that has the potential to harm customers….

Kouzes, J & Posner, B (2003). The Leadership Challenge. Jossey-Bass; 3rd edition. New York, NY. August 7, 2003; pp. 279-336, Chapters 11 & 12

Ethical Decision Making Beneficence

ETHICAL DECISION-MAKINGEthical Decision-MakingIn the subsequent sections of this text, I will be seeking to deploy the ethical decision-making model in an attempt to determine how best to resolve the ethical dilemma presented in the scenario. The model, as presented in this case, is largely based on the work of Forester-Miller and Davis (2016) titled, Practitioners Guide to Ethical Decision Making. This is just one of the many ethical decision-making models. Indeed, according to Cottone and Claus (2000), there are many practice-relevant models that can be chosen as guides for ethical decisions in particular practice settings... (281).1. Identification of the problemJoe is concerned that Carla, his client who is undergoing counseling for depression and anxiety, will end up having sex with the said classmate whom she is interested in dating. Carla is in her first year of campus. In his opinion, such an act would not only be illegal (because the….

Cottone, R.R. & Claus, R.E. (2000). Ethical Decision-Making Models: A Review of the Literature. Journal of Counseling & Development, 78, 275-283.

Forester-Miller, H. & Davis, T. (2016). Practitioner’s Guide to Ethical Decision Making. American Counseling Association.  https://www.counseling.org/docs/default-source/ethics/practioner-39-s-guide-to-ethical-decision-making.pdf?sfvrsn=f9e5482c_10 

Proctor, G.M. (2014). Values and Ethics in Counselling and Psychotherapy. SAGE.

Ethical Decision Making Process

Morality for today's nurses Analyze the MORAL model as a useful tool for ethical decision making. The MORAL model is an extremely useful tool for ethical decision making. In fact, it is somewhat of a relief to realize that there are tools that help one to objectively evaluate an ethical situation. Oftentimes, ethics seems so subjective. Therefore, the MORAL model is a welcome addition to nurses as well as to everyday people who simply need help objectively examining an ethical situation. On the one hand, this model is valuable because it causes nurses to examine a situation holistically. Specifically, the first step of the model (massage the situation) involves nurses examining a particular situation from a variety of lenses. Doing so is pivotal to understanding what is truly at stake and for whom it is at stake. The variation of the different perspectives with which a nurse views a situation then becomes the….

Research Paper

Ethical Decision Ethical Dilemma and Decision Making In the selected scenario, a therapy patient is beginning to develop a trusting relationship with his therapist after spending a fir amount of time…

Business - Ethics

Ethical Decision Making: Ethics refers to principles that define behavior as fair and proper and they are concerned with how a moral person should behave when it comes to making…

Output losses attributed toward alcohol were projected at $119 billion for 1995 (1). As this Alcohol Alert clarifies, several issues give to problem drinking that goes on in…

Ethical Decision Making Kimberly Gas Hub ETHICAL DECISION MAKING IN KIMBELEY GAS HUB The Kimberley Gas Hub is a controversial project to set up an LNG refinery facility at James Price…

Ethical Perspectives Ethical decision making is a method that is utilized by most of the health care professionals all over the world. he principles of beneficence and autonomy are very…

Ethical Decision-Making in Criminal Justice In the study and practice of criminal justice, determining ethical decision-making is a very challenging, if not impossible, undertaking for individuals committed to uphold the…

Fidelity is also an obligation, to the journalist's ethics in particular truthtelling. Beneficence could be applied to helping law enforcement. As the decision at hand consists of two…

Article Review

Ethical Decision Making in Sales Organizations The study of marketing, sales and company ethics has a very diverse foundation of empirical and analytical research ranging from gender- and trait-based analysis…

Criminal Justice

For example, virtually every element of heightened security measures necessitates a corresponding reduction in certain kinds of liberties that American citizens have come to expect in a free…

Ethical Decision Making New Year's Eve Crisis The ethical issues related here include the financial health of both Michael's Pasta Company (which now includes Southern Pasta) and of the restaurant chain…

Ethical Decision Making: Uustal (1993) proposed a decision-making model that offers tangible steps for arriving at a morally acceptable solution when experiencing an ethical dilemma. Generally, nurses are usually faced…

Health - Nursing

Ethical Decision-Making Issues for a QA Project Manager in the Department of Veterans Affairs Today, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) operates the country's largest healthcare system, and an important…

Business - Management

279-306) and therefore sets the foundation for the development of an ethical culture in the organization. Finally and most importantly, the product manager must concentrate on those customers…

ETHICAL DECISION-MAKINGEthical Decision-MakingIn the subsequent sections of this text, I will be seeking to deploy the ethical decision-making model in an attempt to determine how best to resolve the…

Ethics / Morality

Morality for today's nurses Analyze the MORAL model as a useful tool for ethical decision making. The MORAL model is an extremely useful tool for ethical decision making. In fact, it…

Essay on Ethical Decision Making

• 8 Works Cited

Before beginning this class, I did not realize that there were so many ethical problems occurring on a daily basis, whether it is personal or business. Many problems that occur around my workplace seemed to be regular, everyday problems, and I never thought of them as being ethical or non-ethical. Unfortunately, this is probably the reason that so many ethical problems continue to occur within a company without being corrected; due to the fact that the issue at hand is not seen as an ethical problem, many people do not take the necessary steps to correct the problem. During this class, I gained knowledge on the 8-step decision making process that is described by Nelson and Treviño that helps an individual make the best decision when …show more content…

When an organization is not ethical, this will be seen through their work, employees, etc. A customer will lose confidence in a company quickly if they realize ethics are not a main priority for that particular business. If an organization wants to be in business for the long-run, they will realize their priorities should not be on getting rich quick but on setting standards and maintaining them; by following this rule, customers will continue to roll in, and the company will prosper. Throughout this class, I also realized there are more ethical issues than I realized. Some of these issues include human resource issues, such as privacy, discrimination, sexual harassment, performance evaluations, hiring, firing, etc. (Nelson, 2007, p. 68). Conflicts of interest are also on the list of ethical issues seen more regularly throughout the business world. Some of the issues that involve conflicts of interest are hard to recognize as ethical problems. Before taking this class, many issues that happened around my workplace were because of conflicts of interest, but I did not view them as ethical issues. Now, when these types of problems arise, I recognize the ethical issue of the problem before trying to correct it. I have gained so much knowledge throughout this course in such a brief time. Understanding ethics will ultimately help me better myself in my career and could possibly bring better opportunities my way in the future.

Essay on Critical Thinking and Ethical Decision Making

Critical thinking and ethical decision making are crucial for academic success as well as career success. Both critical thinking and ethical choices allow an appreciation of diverse points of view using analytic approaches, create a tolerance for and an appreciation of ambiguity, allow for creative problem-solving, and give the ability to integrate knowledge from diverse viewpoints into unified ideas and strategies. To better understand how critical thinking and ethics impacts our success, we must analyze these skills and how they relate to us academically, and to our future careers.

Ethical Issues Faced By The Adelphia Case

Organizations that behave ethically are more apt to earn the trust of their customers, employees, and stockholders. Then there are companies that hide the true value of the company from possible investors, customers, employees, and the public at large showing a lack of ethically behavior. This does not all the time included just one company, but a group effort to hide, steal, and mislead everyone for personnel gains. Everyone that deals with any organization expects the upmost ethically behavior on all levels.

Ethical Dilemma Essay

An ethical dilemma is an incident that causes us to question how we should react based on our beliefs. A decision needs to be made between right and wrong. I have experienced many ethical dilemmas in my lifetime, so I know that there is no such thing as an ethical dilemma that only affects one person. I also know that some ethical dilemmas are easier to resolve than others are. The easy ones are the ones in which we can make decisions on the spot. For example, if a cashier gives me too much change, I can immediately make a decision to either return the money or keep it. Based on Kant’s, categorical imperative there are two criteria for determining moral right and wrong. First, there is universalizability, which states, “the person’s

Workplace Ethical Dilemma Essay

Everyday individuals are faced with issues associated with ethical dilemmas. Ethical dilemmas involve an individual’s behavior toward a moral standard, which may have been established from previous generations and passed along. In upholding the standards taught individual may be forced to take a particular action involving a decision when a behavior is considered non-ethical is when an ethical dilemma occurs. It can become difficult at times in making the correct decisions or solutions to the situation, which is why a code of ethics is established in the workplace. The code of ethics in the

The Ethical Decision Making Process

The ethical decision making process is based on moral rules and unchanging principles that are derived from reason and can be applied universally. These universal rules and principles must be considered separate from the consequences or the facts of a particular situation. (McWay, 2014). Health care workers face ethical issues and have to use the ethical decision making process to determine what is best for their patients.

The Walmart de Mexico Scandal Essay

• 5 Works Cited

(Panza & Potthast, n.d.) Ethics is very important to a company’s success. Ethical behavior can bring benefits to a business. They can attract customers, which can lead to a boost in sales and profits. It can attract the right employees and increase productivity. It can also attract investors and keep the company’s share price high. Unethical behavior on the other hand can damage a company’s reputation and make it less appealing to stakeholders. It could also result in lower profits.

Ethical Decision Making : Ethical Issue Essay

What are the relevant facts of the case? What facts are not known? Can I learn more about the situation? Do I know enough to make a decision?

Ethical Dilemma Paper

Management constitute amongst major components of a company, organization or a business. As such, management oversees employees interactions with their supervisors and also control of people within a particular organization. Also, it includes critical and ethical decision-making process so as to address various ethical dilemmas experienced by employees while undertaking their respective assigned duties within the company. Ethical dilemmas are hereby to stay as issues usually arise now and then and place a variety of options that bear different repercussions. Therefore, it calls for ethical and critical decision-making skills so as to make the most appropriate option that bears more benefits in comparison to other options presented. While making ethical decisions, it 's substantially important to play heed to a certain ethical decision-making theory. This would enable an individual making the decision to ripe best possible consequences rather than living to regret. Moreover, ethical decision making is typically important in business as making a wrong decision may result not only in huge losses but also poor relationship amongst colleagues and miserable life for employee(s) working in a particular company or business in question.

Essay about Ethical Decision Making

In today's business and personal world, ethical decisions are made on a daily basis. Most of these decisions are based on company ground rules. The others are based on personal ground rules. All decisions can have a number of ground rules that help us determine whether our decision is ethical or unethical. Each decision whether it is based on company or personal ground rules will have its own set of implications. In the following paragraphs I will discuss the impacts of ethics on decision-making, discuss the elements of an ethically defensible decision, define what the ground rules are; what they could be and what they should be, discuss

Ethical Decision Making Case Analysis Essay

Moral issues are those that arouse conscience, are concerned with important values and norms. The use of a tool such as the Ethical Decision-Making Algorithm in appendix A, can help the nurse resolve an ethical dilemma more efficiently and competently. Furthermore, the use of a nursing codes of ethics, which are formal statements standard for professional actions can help guild a nurses decisions. Nurses have multiple obligations to balance in moral situation. The Ethical Decision-Making Algorithm will be used to find the best action and outcome for a case study.

Essay on Ethical Dilemma

The case study presents a moral dilemma based on potential harm to innocent people. By using Kohlberg’s moral development model and by examining major ethical systems, namely deontology and utilitarianism, a clear understanding of the factors influencing this type of decision-making can be gained. Specifically, utilitarianism, Kant’s categorical imperative and the doctrine of double effect address the decision from differing viewpoints, providing the decision maker with compelling evidence to support both angles of the ethical and moral dilemma presented in the decision at hand. A decision can then be made if it is considered morally justified, depending on the model used to make the decision. Often the solution of an ethical dilemma would

Ethical Framework : Decision Making Process Essay

All employees (including the company executives) should be guided by moral principles and ethical values when making decisions (Balc & Simionescu, 2012). The ability of executives to make ethical decisions can be influenced by their cognitive bias (Zeni, Buckley, Mumford & Griffith, 2015). Utilitarianism is one of the frameworks that can be used to address ethical dilemmas. Utilitarianism holds that decision makers should take alternatives that maximize the happiness of the majority of the stakeholders (Choe & Min, 2011 and Marques, 2015). This presentation will discuss how the 8-step ethical decision making process can be applied when addressing a dilemma using the utilitarianism framework. The presentation will also guide the executives of Toyota on how to address the negative publicity associated with the production of cars with faulty acceleration system.

Essay on Ethics and Management Decision Making

• 30 Works Cited

“We have always known that heedless self-interest was bad morals; We know now that it is also bad economics”

Case Study : Ethical Decision Making Process Essay

Recognize moral issue: The issues in Fresh Taste NZ Ltd. are rude behaviour of employer with employees, ignorance of basic ethical practices by workers and providing less salary to the workers etc. All these things create ethical disputes at workplace.

Essay on Moral Dilemma

Everyday we are tested as individuals to make the right choice. How we view ourselves as individuals and how others view us are directly correlated to our moral decision-making. But morals are somewhat misleading. What might be a wrong decision for one person might be a solution to another. So how do we define morals? Do we follow Gods’ moral rules because to do so would increase out likelihood of obtaining salvation in the afterlife? Or is it simpler than that. Is God going to deny our entrance into heaven because we have run a stop sign here and there? No. I believe our moral values are much simpler than that. I believe that our moral decision-making comes from our upbringing of what is right or wrong. Our parents and

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