1. Interactive Group Exercise
Applying the Ethical Decision-Making Tree 1

2. Objectives To introduce students to the ethical decision-making tree.
To apply the decision-making tree to an ethics scenario. 2

3. Instructions Break into groups. Listen to or read the scenario.
Use the ethical decision-making tree to arrive at a solution.
Representatives share with the class your group’s decision and how this decision reflects the use of the ethical decision-making tree. 3

4. Ethical Decision-Making Tree
Is the proposed action legal?
Does it maximize shareholder value?
Don’t do it.
Is it ethical?
Would it be ethical not to take action?
Do it.
Yes No
Source: Bagley C.E. (2003 February). The Ethical Leader’s Decision Tree. Harvard Business Review p. 19 4