Framework for thinking ethically
Omar Maamoun 900121847

Standards of behaviour for how to act in several situations

On what do we base our ethical standards ?

How are these standards applied in real situations

Recognize an ethical issue

Could decision damage anyone?

Issue about more than what is legal or what is most efficient?

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?

Who has stake in outcome? Are some concerns more important?

What are options for acting? Have all relevant parties been consulted?

Evaluate alternative actions

The 5 approaches

Make decision and test

Considering all approaches, which option best addresses the situation?

If I told someone I respect-or television audience-which option I have chosen, what would they say?

Act and reflect on outcome

How can my decision be implemented with the greatest care and attention to the concerns of all stakeholders?

How did my decision turn out and what have I learned from this specific situation?

Feelings

Religion

Following the Law

Following cultural norms

Science

Utilitarian

Greatest good, least harm

Which option will produce the most good and do the least harm?

Rights

Protects moral rights

Which option best respects the rights of all who have a stake?

Fairness or Justice

Actions treat all human equally-or if unequally, then based on some standard that is defensible

Which option treats people equally or proportionately?

Common good

Action contributes to greater good

Which option best serves the community
as a whole, not just some members?

Virtue

Actions consistent with certain ideal virtues that provide for the full development of our humanity

Which option leads me to act as the sort of person I want to be?