Ethical decision-making

Definition

Ethical decision-making refers to the process of evaluating and choosing among alternatives in a manner consistent with ethical principles. It involves considering moral values, societal norms, and potential consequences to make choices that align with what is deemed right and just. This process is crucial in understanding how individuals navigate complex moral landscapes, particularly in historical contexts where leaders’ actions have far-reaching implications.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Plutarch's writings, ethical decision-making often reflects the tension between personal desires and societal expectations.
2. Plutarch portrays historical figures grappling with moral dilemmas, highlighting their internal struggles and the impact of their choices on their legacies.
3. The consequences of ethical decisions made by leaders in Plutarch’s narratives often serve as cautionary tales, emphasizing the weight of responsibility in governance.
4. Plutarch’s emphasis on character ethics illustrates the importance of virtues like justice, courage, and temperance in guiding decision-making.
5. The moral implications of decisions in Plutarch’s works are frequently connected to larger philosophical discussions on fate and free will.

Review Questions

• How does Plutarch illustrate the concept of ethical decision-making through his portrayal of historical figures?
  • Plutarch illustrates ethical decision-making by showcasing historical figures who face moral dilemmas that require them to weigh personal desires against their responsibilities to society. These narratives often depict the inner conflicts experienced by these figures, highlighting how their choices reflect their character and values. For instance, a leader's decision may hinge on upholding justice or succumbing to ambition, demonstrating the complexity of making ethical choices in positions of power.
• Discuss the role of virtues in Plutarch's approach to ethical decision-making and how they influence character portrayal.
  • In Plutarch's works, virtues play a central role in shaping ethical decision-making. He emphasizes qualities such as courage, wisdom, and temperance as essential for leaders to make morally sound choices. These virtues guide characters through their dilemmas, suggesting that ethical decision-making is not just about following rules but about embodying moral character. By illustrating how virtuous actions lead to favorable outcomes, Plutarch reinforces the idea that a strong moral foundation is vital for effective leadership.
• Evaluate how Plutarch’s exploration of ethical decision-making contributes to our understanding of leadership responsibilities in a historical context.
  • Plutarch’s exploration of ethical decision-making offers profound insights into leadership responsibilities by illustrating the heavy burden leaders bear when making choices that affect their communities. His narratives serve as reflections on the interplay between personal ethics and public duty, prompting readers to consider the long-term consequences of actions taken for power or personal gain. By analyzing the outcomes of decisions made by historical figures, Plutarch invites a critical examination of what constitutes true leadership and the moral obligations that accompany it.

Related terms

Virtue Ethics: An ethical theory that emphasizes an individual's character as the key element of ethical thinking, rather than rules or consequences.

Deontological Ethics: An ethical framework that focuses on adherence to rules and duties as the basis for determining what is morally right.

Consequentialism: An ethical theory that judges the rightness or wrongness of an action based on the outcomes or consequences it produces.