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ETHICAL DECISION MAKING FRAMEWORKS
ETHICAL DECISION MAKING FRAMEWORKS
KEY CONCEPTS
KEY CONCEPTS
Ethical Dilemma
Definition: A situation involving a difficult choice between two or more morally acceptable (or unacceptable) options.
Example: A student is asked to sign a friend into class even though they skipped.
SHSM Link: In business or finance, do you report a coworker manipulating numbers to meet a sales target?
Frameworks:
1. The PLUS Decision-Making Model
A structured framework for navigating complex choices.
2. 5-Step Ethical Decision-Making Model
2. 5-Step Ethical Decision-Making Model
Step 1: Recognize the Ethical Issue
Step 1: Recognize the Ethical Issue
Ask:
Is there a conflict between values, duties, or outcomes?
Could someone be hurt or helped by the decision?
Example: You see a co-worker taking home supplies without permission. Is that just a mistake, or is it theft?
Step 2: Gather the Facts
Step 2: Gather the Facts
Ask:
What do I know for sure?
What assumptions am I making?
What are the relevant rules, laws, or policies?
Example: Is there a clear workplace policy against taking supplies? Was the item taken with permission?
Step 3: Evaluate the Options
Step 3: Evaluate the Options
Ask:
What are all the possible courses of action?
Which values (honesty, loyalty, fairness, etc.) support or conflict with each?
What are the consequences for each stakeholder?
Tip: Use ethical principles like honesty, fairness, and respect to weigh your choices.
Step 4: Make a Decision and Test It
Step 4: Make a Decision and Test It
Ask:
Which option best reflects ethical values?
Would I be okay if this decision were made public?
Would I advise a friend to do the same?
Example: If your decision was posted online tomorrow, would you feel comfortable with it?
Step 5: Act and Reflect on the Outcome
Ask:
What happened as a result of my choice?
Would I do the same again?
Did I act in line with my values?
Reflection helps students grow their ethical “muscle” over time.
The Blanchard-Peale Framework
The Blanchard-Peale Framework
Developed by business leaders Ken Blanchard and Norman Vincent Peale, this model focuses on three practical questions to test ethical choices. It is simple, direct, and easy to remember.
Question: Purpose:
Is it legal? Does it break any laws or regulations?
Is it balanced? Is it fair to all parties involved? Will it
promote long-term relationships?
How will it make me Would I feel proud or ashamed if others
feel about myself? knew what I decided?
Example:
You are offered a side job by a client of your employer. Itis not illegal, but it might create a conflict of interest. Ask yourself: Is it legal? Is it fair to your employer? Would you feel good if your boss or peers found out?
SHSM Link (Information & Communications Technology):
You are asked to use company software for a personal project. Is it allowed? Would your employer find it fair?
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