Framework for Ethical Decision Making

Recognize an Ethical Issue

• Could this decision or situation be damaging to someone or to some group?
• Does this decision involve a choice between a good and bad alternative, or perhaps between two “goods” or two “bads”?
• Is the issue about more than what is legal or what is most efficient?

Get the Facts

• Who will be impacted?
• What are your obligations?
• What are possible options and consequences (harm, perception etc.)?

Evaluate Alternate Actions

• Consider your values, the university’s values, and evaluate options by asking the following questions:
  • Which option will produce the most good and do the least harm?
  • Which option best respects the rights of all who have a stake?
  • Which option treats people equally or proportionately?
  • Which option best serves the community as a whole?

Make a Decision and Test It

• After deciding on the option that best addresses the situation, ask yourself:
  • If I told someone I respect – or told a television audience, what would they say?
  • Would I be comfortable with my decision printed in the newspapers for all to read?

Act and Reflect on the Outcome

• How can my decision be implemented with the greatest care and attention to the concerns of all stakeholders?
• Does this decision involve a choice between a good and bad alternative, or perhaps between two “goods” or two “bads”?
• How did my decision turn out and what have I learned from it?