Strategies for Ethical Reasoning
CAPSIM MANAG EMENT SIMULATIO NS, INC.
STRATEGIES FOR ETHICAL REASONING
Release Date: March, 2012
Capsim Ethics Plug-in: Identifying the Options
In hindsight, it is always easier to see how we might have done things differently. How can ethical reasoning help us identify what our options might be before we act and evaluate which of those options might be the most appropriate course of action? Like most academic disciplines, the study of ethics is charged with energetic debate. The ethical principles traditionally applied in business and professional settings are acknowledged on numerous websites such as those belonging to the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics and others. A synopsis of five of them appears below.1 Ultimately, it falls on the individual not only to determine which ethical decision-making principle[s] best apply to the situation, but also to resolve conflicts that the iterative process may reveal. Here are some ideas to consider: Applying a number of principles, or approaches, helps to view the situation from different vantage points, and reveals facets of the problem perhaps not previously considered. A multi-faceted process encourages discussion with others and may elicit additional viewpoints as well as reveal how these positions may converge or differ. It fosters a fair evaluation of conflicting perspectives, each of which may be held for what appear to be "good" or "right" reasons. Frequently, applying each of these principles separately can reach similar conclusions regarding a proposed action, although the reasons why it is seen as a wise or unwise choice may differ. Considering multiple approaches can strengthen the confidence among all concerned in a decision to decline a proposed course of action as inappropriate, when it might have once held wide support.
Understanding the different reasons why an action might not be a good idea may also enable those concerned
STRATEGIES FOR ETHICAL REASONING
Release Date: March, 2012
Capsim Ethics Plug-in: Identifying the Options
In hindsight, it is always easier to see how we might have done things differently. How can ethical reasoning help us identify what our options might be before we act and evaluate which of those options might be the most appropriate course of action? Like most academic disciplines, the study of ethics is charged with energetic debate. The ethical principles traditionally applied in business and professional settings are acknowledged on numerous websites such as those belonging to the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics and others. A synopsis of five of them appears below.1 Ultimately, it falls on the individual not only to determine which ethical decision-making principle[s] best apply to the situation, but also to resolve conflicts that the iterative process may reveal. Here are some ideas to consider: Applying a number of principles, or approaches, helps to view the situation from different vantage points, and reveals facets of the problem perhaps not previously considered. A multi-faceted process encourages discussion with others and may elicit additional viewpoints as well as reveal how these positions may converge or differ. It fosters a fair evaluation of conflicting perspectives, each of which may be held for what appear to be "good" or "right" reasons. Frequently, applying each of these principles separately can reach similar conclusions regarding a proposed action, although the reasons why it is seen as a wise or unwise choice may differ. Considering multiple approaches can strengthen the confidence among all concerned in a decision to decline a proposed course of action as inappropriate, when it might have once held wide support.
Understanding the different reasons why an action might not be a good idea may also enable those concerned