Ethical Dilemma

Ethical Dilemma

• It arises when making a choice between two competing sets of moral principles
• It is similar to being on two horns, neither of which is comfortable
• There is no ‘perfect’ solution in an ethical dilemma. Some ethical principle is always compromised.

Types of Ethical Dilemma

• Ethics vs Personal Loss – when compliance with ethical conduct results in a significant personal loss
• Right vs Right – when making a choice between two competing sets of ethical values

Steps to resolve Ethical Dilemma

• The decision should conform to the rule of law
• It should be in line with the organization’s code of conduct and goals
• It should give the ‘most optimum’ outcome for public and the organization both
• It should be justifiable if scrutinized

Two sources of guidance in resolving Ethical Dilemma

• External – Law
• Internal – Conscience

Conscience as a source of Ethical Guidance

• Conscience is a person’s moral sense of right or wrong. It is God given ability to reason
• It is shaped by one’s beliefs and values. Eg – conscience of someone who is an ascetic may be different from someone who is a hedonist
• Some argue that since conscience is highly subjective, it is not a good source of ethical guidance
• At individual level, conscience takes one away from self-centres thinking
• At political level, conscience lessens corruption, nepotism. It directs one to uphold the rule of law and maintain highest levels of probity in governance
• At citizen level, conscience pushes a person to keep his surroundings clean, cast his vote, pay his taxes, cultivate social harmony and peace etc