Ethical dilemma

Definition

An ethical dilemma is a situation in which a person faces conflicting moral principles and must choose between two or more courses of action, each of which has ethical implications. It often requires weighing personal values against professional responsibilities and can lead to moral distress when individuals feel they cannot fulfill their ethical obligations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ethical dilemmas often arise in educational settings when conflicting values emerge, such as the need to uphold academic integrity versus a desire to support a struggling student.
2. Resolving an ethical dilemma typically requires careful consideration of the consequences of each option, as well as reflection on personal and professional values.
3. Individuals facing ethical dilemmas may experience emotional stress, particularly if their decision could harm others or conflict with their personal beliefs.
4. Collaboration with colleagues or mentors can provide valuable perspectives and support when navigating ethical dilemmas.
5. Ethical decision-making frameworks can help individuals systematically analyze dilemmas, weighing pros and cons before reaching a conclusion.

Review Questions

• How can understanding moral reasoning aid individuals in resolving ethical dilemmas?
  • Understanding moral reasoning helps individuals evaluate the ethical implications of their choices by clarifying the underlying principles at stake. It enables them to assess various options through different ethical lenses, such as utilitarianism or deontology, which can lead to a more informed decision. This comprehension empowers individuals to navigate their personal values alongside professional responsibilities, ultimately guiding them toward a resolution that aligns with their ethical beliefs.
• What role does values clarification play in addressing ethical dilemmas in educational contexts?
  • Values clarification plays a crucial role in addressing ethical dilemmas by helping educators identify their core beliefs and priorities. This process allows educators to reflect on how their values align or conflict with professional expectations, ultimately influencing their decisions. By clarifying their values, educators can approach dilemmas with greater awareness and confidence, leading to choices that are consistent with both their personal ethics and their commitment to students.
• Evaluate the impact of an ethical dilemma on a teacher's professional responsibilities and relationships with students and colleagues.
  • An ethical dilemma can significantly impact a teacher's professional responsibilities and relationships by creating tension between personal morals and obligations to students or the institution. When teachers face these conflicts, they may struggle with feelings of guilt or anxiety regarding their decisions, which can affect their interactions with students and colleagues. The way they navigate these dilemmas may either strengthen trust and collaboration within their school community or lead to fractures if decisions are perceived as unjust or inconsistent with shared values.

Related terms

moral reasoning:

The process of determining what is right or wrong in a given situation, often involving the evaluation of ethical principles.

values clarification:

A method used to help individuals identify and understand their own values, which can guide decision-making in ethical dilemmas.

decision-making model: A structured approach that outlines steps to follow when making decisions, particularly in complex or ethically challenging situations.