Granted internet access to confidential personnel data.
Sample Solution
Scenario 1: Shopping Cart in the Rain
Response: I would return the shopping cart to the corral, even though it's raining and my toddler is throwing a tantrum.
Ethical Framework: Deontological Ethics
Explanation: Deontological ethics, as articulated by Immanuel Kant, focuses on the inherent rightness or wrongness of actions, independent of their consequences. In this case, returning the cart is the right thing to do. It shows respect for others (shoppers and store employees) and contributes to a well-functioning society. Leaving the cart could damage it, inconvenience others, and make the store look messy. It's a small act of duty and consideration for the greater good.
Full Answer Section
While the rain and tantrum present challenges, they don't change the underlying principle. Deontology encourages us to act according to universal moral laws, even when inconvenient.Scenario 2: Confidential Personnel Data
Response: I would tell someone about the unauthorized access to confidential data, even though it means my friend might get in trouble.
Ethical Framework: Utilitarianism
Explanation: Utilitarianism, championed by John Stuart Mill, focuses on maximizing overall happiness and well-being. Here, confidentiality of personnel data is crucial for employee privacy and trust within the company. A data breach could have severe consequences for employees and the organization. While my friend might face repercussions, revealing the issue helps prevent potential harm to a larger group and protects the integrity of the system.
Utilitarianism advocates for actions that bring the greatest good to the greatest number of people. In this case, disclosing the access issue, although uncomfortable, promotes long-term safety and trust within the company.
Scenario 3: Broken Television and Insurance Claim
Response: I would not include the broken television in the insurance claim, despite having renter's insurance.
Ethical Framework: Virtue Ethics
Explanation: Virtue ethics, as described by Aristotle, emphasizes developing good character traits for ethical behavior. Honesty is a key virtue. Here, the television has no value, and claiming it would be dishonest.
Virtue ethics teaches us to act in accordance with our values and strive to be a good person. Filing a false claim undermines honesty and could potentially harm the insurance system designed to protect people from genuine losses. It's important to act with integrity, even when the situation might seem advantageous.