Speech 1311
Ethical Decision-Making
Based on
“A Framework for Thinking Ethically” Markkula Center for Applied Ethics
“Five Ways to Shape Ethical Decisions” Capism Website
“A Framework for Universal Principles of Ethics”
Larry Colero, W. Maurice Young Centre for Applied Ethics
1
Communication and Ethical Decisions
Unethical Communication
Universal Ethical Principles
Ethical Dilemmas
Ethical Approaches
Ethical Decision-Making
| Temper Tantrums | Lying | Silent Treatment | Insults | Interrupting |
| Not Listening | Talking behind someone’s back | Disrespect | Sarcasm | Manipulation |
| Pulling out phone | Argumentative | Talking over people | Insensitive | Unapologetic |
| Acting like it’s a joke | Being rude or offensive | Profanity | Negative Gestures | Having an attitude |
| Rolling Eyes | No Eye Contact | Overreacting | Aggressive | Pulling out Phone |
Unethical Communication Behaviors
“A Framework for Universal Principles of Ethics” By Larry Colero, W. Maurice Young Centre for Applied Ethics
Do Good
Do No Harm
Honesty Trustworthiness
Be Fair
Justice
Concern for Others
Comply with Law
Refuse Taking Unfair Advantage
Respect Autonomy of Others
Ethical Theories
Virtue
Common Good
Fairness or Justice
Deontology
Utilitarian
Rights
Utilitarian Approach
An ethical action
provides the most good.
does the least harm.
benefits the most people.
produces the best outcome for everyone affected.
Velasquez, M. et al. “A Framework for Thinking Ethically.” Santa Clara University. May 2009.
Common Good Approach
An ethical action
benefits society as a whole, not just some members.
shows respect and compassion for all others – especially the vulnerable.
Velasquez, M. et al. “A Framework for Thinking Ethically.” Santa Clara University. May 2009.
Virtue Approach
An ethical action
What kind of person will I become if I do this?
Is this action consistent with my acting at my best?
Emphasizes the virtues or moral character of persons.
Velasquez, M. et al. “A Framework for Thinking Ethically.” Santa Clara University. May 2009.
The Rights Approach
An ethical action
best protects and respects the moral rights of those affected.
focuses on respect for human dignity and our ability to choose freely how we live our lives.
Velasquez, M. et al. “A Framework for Thinking Ethically.” Santa Clara University. May 2009.
Fairness or Justice Approach
An ethical action
treats all human beings equally.
must be based on standards of equity, fairness, and impartiality.
distributes benefits and burdens fairly.
Velasquez, M. et al. “A Framework for Thinking Ethically.” Santa Clara University. May 2009.
Ethical Approaches to Guide Decision
Which option will do the most good and the least harm? (Utilitarian Approach)
Which option best respects the rights of all who have a stake? (Rights Approach)
Which option treats people equally or proportionately? (Fairness or Justice Approach)
Which option best serves the community as a whole, not just some members? (Common Good Approach)
Which option leads me to act as the sort of person I want to be? (Virtue Approach)
Velasquez, M. et al. “A Framework for Thinking Ethically.” Santa Clara University. May 2009.
Ethical Decision-Making Essay Guidelines
Describe the ethical dilemma.
Analyze the issue using more than one ethical standard.
What ethical standards apply?
Consider the consequences and possible outcomes if these standards are applied to the decision.
Analyze the issue from your ethical perspective.
Discuss the core beliefs that guide your ethical conduct and ethical thinking.
Ethical Decision-Making Essay Guidelines
Two citations in text
MLA style; Works Cited
400-600 words
Double-spaced
12-point Times New Roman or Calibri
Correct grammar and word choice
Spell-checked; edited