Does it matter what an individual’s motive is when he or she acts? Think about it. You happen to witness a woman getting mugged and at the same time realize that your boss is standing some distance away, what do you do? You normally avoid involvement. Yet, knowing that your boss is observing the situation you decide to subdue the aggressor. You protect the lady, return her purse, and aid in the capture of her mugger. You are declared a hero. Your boss applauds your efforts and recognizes your selflessness at an office party.
In light of your self-promotion, which motivated you to get involved, were your actions truly ethical? Read the rest of this entry »
Just as a contractor must pay particular attention to the foundation of a building under construction, so must you and I pay attention to the foundation of our ethical decisions. Begin with a weak or faulty foundation and you will witness the crumbling of your ethical positions. Too often we are pressured to adopt ideals because of the economic impact, societal opinion, political correctness, or self-preservation. Will these bear weight of your decisions? I submit they will not. There must be a better way of discerning right from wrong, ethical from unethical.