Ethical dilemma

Definition

An ethical dilemma is a situation where a person faces conflicting moral choices, making it difficult to decide the right course of action. This often involves a struggle between two or more ethical principles, where choosing one may violate another, leading to complex decision-making. Ethical dilemmas challenge individuals to evaluate their values, beliefs, and the consequences of their actions, often requiring critical thinking and careful consideration of various frameworks to resolve.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ethical dilemmas can arise in various contexts, including personal relationships, professional settings, and social issues, highlighting the complexities of moral reasoning.
2. Resolving an ethical dilemma often involves weighing the potential benefits and harms of each choice, which can be influenced by different ethical theories.
3. In many cases, individuals may experience emotional distress when facing an ethical dilemma due to the pressure of making the 'right' decision.
4. Critical thinking plays a crucial role in navigating ethical dilemmas, allowing individuals to analyze the situation and consider different perspectives before making a choice.
5. Different ethical decision-making frameworks can provide structured approaches to resolving dilemmas, helping individuals identify their values and the implications of their decisions.

Review Questions

• How do ethical dilemmas challenge critical thinking skills in decision-making?
  • Ethical dilemmas require individuals to engage in critical thinking as they navigate conflicting moral choices. This involves analyzing the situation from multiple perspectives, assessing the potential consequences of each option, and considering the underlying values at play. By engaging with these complexities, individuals enhance their ability to evaluate arguments and arrive at a reasoned decision that aligns with their moral beliefs.
• In what ways can different ethical frameworks influence the resolution of an ethical dilemma?
  • Different ethical frameworks provide distinct lenses through which to view and resolve dilemmas. For instance, consequentialism focuses on the outcomes of actions, encouraging individuals to choose options that maximize overall well-being. In contrast, deontological ethics emphasizes adherence to rules and duties, leading individuals to prioritize obligations over results. Understanding these frameworks allows for a more comprehensive analysis of a dilemma and can significantly impact the final decision made.
• Evaluate the importance of understanding one's personal values when faced with an ethical dilemma and how this awareness can shape decision-making.
  • Understanding one's personal values is essential when confronted with an ethical dilemma because it serves as a guiding compass for decision-making. Awareness of what is truly important helps individuals prioritize their choices and provides clarity amid conflicting options. By reflecting on their values, people can make more authentic decisions that resonate with their beliefs, leading to greater satisfaction and alignment between actions and moral principles.

Related terms

moral conflict: A situation where an individual's moral beliefs are challenged by conflicting values or demands.

value judgment: An assessment based on personal beliefs about what is important or desirable in life, influencing decision-making.

consequentialism: An ethical theory that suggests the morality of an action is determined by its outcomes or consequences.