Ethical decision-making models

Definition

Ethical decision-making models are structured frameworks that guide individuals and organizations in identifying, analyzing, and resolving ethical dilemmas. These models integrate various ethical theories and principles to help decision-makers consider the potential consequences of their actions, the rights and responsibilities involved, and the broader impact on stakeholders.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ethical decision-making models typically include steps like identifying the problem, considering the stakeholders, evaluating options, making a decision, and reflecting on the outcome.
2. These models often draw from multiple ethical theories to provide a well-rounded perspective on complex dilemmas.
3. Using an ethical decision-making model can help prevent bias by providing a systematic approach to evaluating decisions.
4. Different models may prioritize different values or outcomes, which can influence the final decision in a significant way.
5. Organizations often adopt these models as part of their corporate governance practices to ensure ethical consistency in decision-making.

Review Questions

• How do ethical decision-making models aid in resolving complex ethical dilemmas?
  • Ethical decision-making models provide a structured approach to tackling complex ethical dilemmas by breaking down the process into clear steps. By identifying the problem and considering the interests of all stakeholders, these models facilitate a comprehensive evaluation of potential options. This systematic method helps ensure that decisions are made thoughtfully, taking into account various ethical theories and principles that may apply to the situation.
• Compare how utilitarianism and deontology might lead to different outcomes in a given ethical scenario.
  • Utilitarianism focuses on maximizing overall happiness and outcomes for the majority, leading to decisions that prioritize collective well-being even if it means compromising individual rights. In contrast, deontology emphasizes moral duties and principles regardless of the consequences, often resulting in adherence to rules or obligations even if this may not yield the best overall outcome. Thus, in a scenario where both frameworks are applied, they may arrive at opposing conclusions based on their foundational principles.
• Evaluate the role of virtue ethics within ethical decision-making models and its impact on personal character development.
  • Virtue ethics plays a crucial role in ethical decision-making models by shifting focus from actions alone to the character traits of individuals making those decisions. This approach emphasizes qualities such as integrity, honesty, and compassion, suggesting that cultivating virtuous character can lead to more ethically sound decisions. The incorporation of virtue ethics encourages individuals to reflect on who they aspire to be, impacting personal character development and promoting a consistent moral compass in their professional lives.

Related terms

Utilitarianism: An ethical theory that suggests the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or utility, often summarized as 'the greatest good for the greatest number.'

Deontology: An ethical framework that emphasizes duties and rules, suggesting that certain actions are morally obligatory regardless of their consequences.

Virtue Ethics: An ethical approach focusing on the character of the individual rather than specific actions, emphasizing virtues such as honesty, courage, and compassion.