General
Teaching Tools
Case Materials
What are these tests?
The first three tests conveniently encapsulate or telescope three commonly taught ethical approaches. The fourth test presents an important concept in professional ethics, that professionals have special obligations because of their expertise. The final test ask a practical question that has ethical implications: can it be done?
- Harm/Beneficence: Does it do less harm and more good than the alternatives? This test is about the alternatives for all stakeholders
- Publicity: Would I want this choice published in the newspaper? This test is about what the decision would show about your character.
- Reversibility: Would I think this a good choice if I were among those affected by it? This choice is about whether stakeholders are being treated with respect
- Code of Ethics: How does this choice relate to the ethical standards of my profession? This test is about the decision-maker's duties in his or her role as a professional.
- Feasibility: Can this solution be implemented given time, technical, economic, legal and social considerations? This test is about practical issues.