Notes on Ethical Decision Making Lecture

Introduction

• Focus of the lecture: How to make decisions ethically.
• Goal: Learn a method for ethical decision-making through a dilemma example.

Understanding Dilemmas

• Definition of Dilemma:
  • Not just about good vs. evil but about competing values.
  • Choosing one value often sacrifices another.
• Common mistake:
  • Framing a dilemma in terms of competing solutions rather than competing values.

Key Concepts

• Articulation of Values:
  • Essential to articulate values before making decisions.
  • Decisions stem from values, not just actions.
• Emotions vs. Reason:
  • While feelings play a role, ethical decision-making should be a reasoned process.

Reasoned Process of Ethical Decision Making

• Elements involved in decision making:
  1. Facts
  2. Values/Principles
  3. Options
  4. Consequences
• Proposal for Ethical Dilemma:
  • Take a pause: Stop, Look, and Listen.
  • Follow these steps:
    1. Gather the Facts
    2. Identify Stakeholders
    3. Articulate the Dilemma
    4. List Alternatives
    5. Compare Alternatives to Principles
    6. Weigh Consequences
    7. Make the Decision

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Gather the Facts:
   • Ask yourself:
     • What do I already know?
     • What do I need to know?
2. Identify Stakeholders:
   • Consider all involved parties, including primary and secondary stakeholders.
   • Recognize abstract stakeholders in broader situations.
3. Articulate the Dilemma:
   • Frame a dilemma statement focusing on competing values (not actions).
4. List Alternatives:
   • Brainstorm possible outcomes and eliminate untenable options.
   • Consider a creative middle option, not just extremes.
5. Compare to Principles:
   • Reflect on which values each alternative supports.
   • Create a matrix comparing values against options.
6. Weigh the Consequences:
   • Assess positive and negative consequences for each stakeholder.
   • Be thorough in evaluating effects on all parties involved.
7. Make the Decision:
   • Refer back to the matrix for justification.
   • Differentiate between justification (reasoned) and rationalization (instinctive).
   • Develop a strategy for execution of the decision.

Conclusion

• Ethical decision-making is a skill that requires patience and practice.
• Emphasize the importance of character in ethical decision-making:
  • Ethical behavior comes from character, developed through consistent moral reasoning.
• Quote from Aristotle: "In the end, we are what we repeatedly do. Ethics is character."

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• Final Note:
  • Practice the decision-making process on significant choices.
  • Remember the three-week rule for habit formation.