Ethical Problem Solving Techniques II Luis Alvarez Jose

Ethical Problem Solving Techniques II Luis Alvarez Jose Ruiz La. Kausha Simpson Michelle Woomer

Agenda n n n Conflict Problems Bribery vs. Gifts Analyzing the Situation Avoiding Bribes The Agnew Case

Conflict Problems n 3 Considerations for Resolution n Health and safety above all “Creative” middle way Bite the bullet (go with your gut)

The Challenger Decision

Conflict Problems Step 1: Rethinking and Critiquing n What we know (at that time): n n n O-ring performance at lower temperatures is ambiguous at best The temperature is drastically lower than the O-ring has ever been tested at If the O-ring fails, the shuttle can explode Our Solution: Yes there is a chance that lives will be lost. DO NOT LAUNCH NASA Solution: Let’s move on to step 2.

Conflict Problems Step 2: Can We Compromise? n What we know (at that time): n n n Cancellation can result in loss of funding Delaying the launch may be impossible due to mission timing Informing astronauts of the risk and allow them decide to proceed or decline Our Solution: Inform the astronauts of the risks involved and give them the option to walk NASA Solution: Let’s move on to step 3

Conflict Problems Step 3: Bite the Bullet n What we know (at the time): n n n If launch goes well, everybody is happy If launch goes wrong, results are worse than consequences of cancellation If launch is stopped, jobs are lost Our Solution: People can find new jobs; do not risk the astronauts NASA Solution: Launch…

Bribery vs. Gifts n n Since the difference between a gift and a bribe can be ambiguous, it is important to avoid even the appearance of a bribe Bribery is illegal because it inhibits competition of a free market economy

Bribery vs. Gifts n n Bribery – the practice of offering something, usually money, in order to gain an illicit advantage Gift – something that is bestowed voluntarily and without compensation

Bribery vs. Gifts Examples of… Bribes Large sums of money and items of large monetary values often cross that fine line Gifts Coffee mugs, t-shirts, and pens are often seen as simple promotional items

Analyzing the Situation n 3 Issues to Analyze n Factual Issue n n Conceptual Issue n n Who offered the gift? What is its purpose and value? When was it offered? Determine if the gift has enough value to influence decision Moral Issue n Once the facts and concepts are analyzed, the moral issues are clear

Avoiding Bribes n How can you determine if something is a bribe or gift? n n Use line drawing technique Use flow chart to examine consequences of actions Adhere to company policy Seek approval from management

Avoiding Bribes New York Times Test “Could your actions withstand the scrutiny of a newspaper reporter? Could you stand to see your name in the newspaper in an article about a gift you received? If you couldn’t easily defend your action without resorting to self-serving rationalizations, then you probably shouldn’t do it. ”