Ethical Reasoning Method Bases for Making Ethical Judgments
Teleology Deontology Justice Virtue Ethics
Egoism
Enlightened Egoism Utilitarianism Rights Theory
Ethical Judgments
Defines “right” behavior by consequences for the decision maker
Considers well-being of others within the scope of deciding on a course of action based on self-interest.
Evaluates consequences of actions (harms and benefits) on stakeholders
Considers “rights” of stakeholders and related duties to them.
Treats people as an end and not merely as a means to an end.
Universality Perspective: Would I want others to act in a similar manner for similar reasons in this situation?
Emphasizes rights, fairness, and equality.
Those with equal claims to justice should be treated equally; those with unequal claims should be treated unequally.
Only method where ethical reasoning methods—“virtues” (internal traits of character)—apply both to the decision maker and the decision
Judgments are made not by applying rules, but by possessing those traits that enable the decision maker to act for the good of others.
Similar to Principles of AICPA Code and IMA Standards.
Act
Evaluate whether the intended action provides the greatest net benefits.
Rule
Select the action that conforms to the correct moral rule that produces the greatest net benefits
Problems with Implementation
Fails to consider interests of those affected by the decision
Interests of others are subservient to self-interest.
Can be difficult to assign values to harms and benefits.
Relies on moral absolutes—no exceptions; need to resolve conflicting rights
Can be difficult to determine the criteria to distinguish equal from unequal claims.
Virtues may conflict, requiring choices to be made.
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