The following is a set of questions which might be asked in the face of an ethical dilemma.
1. Is there a conflict (personal, interpersonal, or institutional) or a question that arises either at the level of thought or of feeling?
2. Is the question a moral or ethical question? Why? (See the introduction above and Questions 5-9 below.)
3. What are the pertinent facts of the case (e.g., which interests are at stake?)?
4. What alternative actions are available?
6. Which alternative would make a good general rule (e.g., always treat others in a just manner) for people to follow in similar situations?
7. Which alternative would lead to the best overall consequences?
8. Which alternative best protects the moral rights of individuals?
9. Which alternative best promotes the common good?
10. Considering these various points of view, which of your alternative actions would be the best?
11. What would other persons of good judgment think of the justification of your decision?
12. In retrospect was the action - and its results for others as well as your own moral character - the best action?
13. What do other persons of good judgment think of the action and its results in retrospect?
Each human being has dignity and is worthy of respect. Human dignity gives rise to fundamental moral rights.
Rights are legitimate claims persons have on others and our society. There are two kinds: the first protects human freedom and imposes on others the duty not to interfere with that freedom (e.g., the right to free speech); the second entitles a person to what is necessary for a minimum level of well-being (e.g., the right to food) and imposes on others the duty to sustain that well being.
The principle states: "An action or policy is ethical if it protects or advances moral rights."
Benefits and burdens may be distributed based on what a person needs, deserves, contributes, etc., or may be distributed equally to all.
The principle states: "In distributing benefits and burdens, treat people the same unless there are morally relevant differences between them."
The principle states: "Of any two actions, the more ethical one will produce the greatest balance of benefits over harms."
Examples: compassion, honesty, courage, faithfulness, trustworthiness, integrity, etc.
The principle states: "What is ethical is what develops moral virtues."
Presents a vision of society as a community whose members are joined in the shared pursuit of values and goals they hold in common.
This community is comprised of individuals whose own good is inextricably bound to the good of the whole.
The principle states: "What is ethical is what advances the common good."