Ethical Decision-Making Steps

Ethical Decision-Making Steps
Step 1: Identify the problem
Is this an ethical dilemma? Where is the conflict? What is the issue, question, or decision at hand?
Step 2: Gather all the information relevant. Acknowledge feelings
Gather as much information as possible. What are the ethically relevant facts? Have all the relevant perspectives
been obtained? What do the institution’s policies or guidelines say? What does the relevant law say? Are there
any “red flags” that should inform our decision-making?
Step 3: Examine and determine your own values on the issues
Examine and determine your own values on the issues. What does our conscience or “gut” tell us to do? Are
there any biases, and/or loyalties? Are there any systemic barriers or inequities we should be mindful of in our
decision-making?
Step 4: Verbalize the problem
Verbalize the problem. Once all relevant information has been gathered, accurate definition of the problem may
proceed. It is helpful to state the problem in a few sentences.
Step 5: Consider possible courses of action
What are the alternative courses of actions? What are the likely consequences? What are the options? What are
the risks/disadvantages and who they affect; Benefits/advantages and who they affect; Associated values with
the listed options?
Option Risks/disadvantages
and who they affect
Benefits/advantages
and who they affect
Associated values
Option 1:
Option 2:
etc
Step 6: Reflect on outcome
This is the most important and delicate step of the process.
Step 7: Evaluate the action and the outcome
Which alternative best reflects the ranking of values? Which alternative best balances more of the values? Have
any other alternatives come to light? What was the decision made?