Framework for thinking ethically

What is the basis of our ethical standards

How do those standards get applied to specific situations we face

The Virtue Approach

An approach statinh that ethical actions ought to be consistent with certain ideal virtues that provide for the full development of our humanity.

The Common Good Approach

The Greek philosophers have contributed the notion that life in community is a good in itself and our actions should contribute to that life.

The Fairness or Justice Approach

where some greek philosophers contributed the idea that all equals should be treated equally.

The Rights Approach

where some philosophers and ethicists suggest that the ethical action is the one that best protects and respects the moral rights of those affected.

The Utilitarian Approach

should end terrorism,death,injuries and destruction.

where some ethicists emphasize that an ethical action is the one that produces the greatest balance of good over harmful.

Definition: Standards of behaviour humans follow when they are in certain positions for example parents or citizens.

Things that are not part of ethics/ethics do not include:

Feeling

Not all feel bad when they do something wrong

Religion

Many are not religious yet follow ethical standards

Following the laws

Law does not include all ethical standards

Following culturally accepted norms

"when in Rome do as the Romans do" (not acceptable)

Science

Alone is not enough

Recognize an Ethical Issue

1. Could this decision or situation be damaging to someone or to some group? Does this decision involve a choice between a good and bad alternative, or perhaps between two "goods" or between two "bads"?
2. Is this issue about more than what is legal or what is most efficient? If so, how?

Get the Facts

1. 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?
2. What individuals and groups have an important stake in the outcome? Are some concerns more important? Why?
3. What are the options for acting? Have all the relevant persons and groups been consulted? Have I identified creative options?

Evaluate Alternative Actions

1. Evaluate the options by asking the following questions:
• Which option will produce the most good and do the least harm? (The Utilitarian Approach)
• Which option best respects the rights of all who have a stake? (The Rights Approach)
• Which option treats people equally or proportionately? (The Justice Approach)
• Which option best serves the community
as a whole, not just some members?
(The Common Good Approach)
• Which option leads me to act as the sort of person I want to be? (The Virtue Approach)

Make a Decision and Test It

1. Considering all these approaches, which option best addresses the situation?
2. If I told someone I respect-or told a television audience-which option I have chosen, what would they say?

Act and Reflect on the Outcome

1. How can my decision be implemented with the greatest care and attention to the concerns of all stakeholders?
2. How did my decision turn out and what have I learned from this specific situation?