Differentiate the concepts of morality and social ethics.
While using the risk assessment model, what might the decision makers include in their assessment before taking action? Why is this an important step?
What are the consequences of not looking at various perspectives and the interests of other people involved while making a responsible ethical decision?
The concepts of morality and social ethics.
- It is considered morally wrong to steal, regardless of the circumstances. This is because stealing violates the individual's right to property.
- However, it may be considered socially acceptable to steal food if you are starving. This is because the need to survive overrides the individual's right to property.
Risk assessment model
The risk assessment model is a systematic approach to identifying and assessing risks. It is often used in business and government to make decisions about whether or not to take a particular course of action.
The risk assessment model includes the following steps:
- Identify the risks. What are the potential negative consequences of taking this course of action?
- Estimate the likelihood of each risk. How likely is it that each risk will occur?
- Assess the impact of each risk. How severe would the consequences be if each risk does occur?
- Make a decision. Based on the risk assessment, is it worth taking the course of action?
The risk assessment model is an important step in making responsible ethical decisions. By identifying and assessing the risks, decision makers can make informed decisions that are less likely to have negative consequences.
Consequences of not looking at various perspectives and interests
When making ethical decisions, it is important to look at the various perspectives and interests of all stakeholders involved. This includes employees, customers, suppliers, the community, and the environment.
If decision makers do not consider the various perspectives and interests, they may make decisions that are harmful to some stakeholders. This can lead to protests, boycotts, and other forms of backlash. It can also damage the reputation of the company or organization.
In some cases, not considering the various perspectives and interests can even lead to legal action. For example, if a company pollutes the environment, it may be sued by the community.
Here are some of the consequences of not looking at various perspectives and interests while making a responsible ethical decision:
- Harm to stakeholders: The decision may harm some stakeholders, such as employees, customers, suppliers, the community, or the environment.
- Damage to reputation: The decision may damage the reputation of the company or organization.
- Legal action: The decision may lead to legal action, such as a lawsuit.
- Public backlash: The decision may lead to protests, boycotts, and other forms of backlash.
It is important to remember that ethical decisions are not always easy. There may be no perfect solution that satisfies everyone. However, by considering the various perspectives and interests of all stakeholders, decision makers can make more informed decisions that are less likely to have negative consequences.
Morality and social ethics
Morality and social ethics are two closely related concepts that are often used interchangeably. However, there is a subtle difference between the two.
- Morality is a set of personal beliefs about right and wrong. It is based on individual conscience and values.
- Social ethics is a set of principles that govern the behavior of individuals within a society. It is based on the shared values of a community or group.
In other words, morality is about what is right and wrong for an individual, while social ethics is about what is right and wrong for a group of people.
Here is an example to illustrate the difference between morality and social ethics.