Deciding What’s Right: A Prescriptive Approach Chapter 4

Consequentialiest Theories  Focus on attention on results or consequences of the decision or action  Utilitarian Approach  Deontological Theories  Virtue Ethics

Utilitarian Approach  Best known  Maximize benefits to society and minimize harms  Approach an ethical dilemma by identifying the alternative actions and their consequences for all stake holders  Difficulties with approach

Deontological Theories  Base decisions about what’s right on a broad, abstract universal ethical principles  Some actions can be wrong even if the consequences of the action were good  Some rely on Western biblical tradition  Kant’s “categorical imperative”  Challenges

Virtue Ethics  Focuses on integrity of the moral actor than on the moral act itself  Considers actor’s character, motivations, and intentions  Community standards  Disclosure rule

Eight Steps to Ethical Decision Making  Gather the facts  Define the Ethical Issues  Identify the Affected Parties  Identify the Consequences  Identify the Obligations  Consider you Character and Integrity  Think Creatively about Potential Actions  Check Your Gut

Practical Preventative Medicine  Do your homework –Learn rules of organization and profession –Ask questions –Develop relationships outside of your chain of command

Practical Preventative Medicine  When you are asked to make a snap decision –Don’t underestimate a hunch that you are facing an ethical dilemma –Ask for time to think it over –Find out if your company has a policy that applies to your decision –Ask your manager or peers for advice –Use the quick-check New York Times test