What are ethical decision-making models and what are they used for?

Ethical decision-making models are used to analyse and solve moral dilemmas. They can also be called theoretical frameworks or approaches that aid decision-making by allowing us to consider different aspects and implications of our decisions. Decisions are always made with regard to ethical and moral principles that are acceptable on a personal level and in a social context.

What can these models do for us?

✅ Sorting and comparing ideas

If we are not sure how to make a decision, models can help us analyse the problem at hand, sorting out important information and values.

✅ Providing clues

They also offer specific criteria by which we can judge whether our decision is ethically and morally right.

✅ Determining what is essential

They can help us distinguish the essential from the non-essential and reflect on the consequences of our decision.

✅ Objectivity versus subjectivity

Models of ethical decision-making are based primarily on logical arguments and generally acceptable principles, which can help us avoid personal bias and emotional decisions.

✅ Defending decision
Decisions based on respected principles and approaches allow us to defend our decisions to others.

Overview of key ethical decision-making models

Now, let’s take a closer look at individual ethical decision-making models. This is a brief overview based on respected theoretical concepts. Each model draws from different ideological traditions, focuses on distinct aspects, and emphasises different principles. Let’s find inspiration in them:

✅ Deontological Model

This model is inspired by the work of Immanuel Kant (e.g., Kant’s well-known categorical imperative). It emphasises adherence to moral rules and duties regardless of the consequences and is based on universal ethical principles.

✅ Utilitarian Model

This model is based on the works of Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill. Decision-making in this model is guided by the idea of maximising overall benefit, which includes well-being, happiness, and prosperity. In other words, an ethical decision is one that brings the greatest good to the largest number of people.

✅ Virtue Ethics

This model is founded on Aristotle’s virtue ethics. It focuses on the personal character and virtues of a leader, emphasizing qualities such as justice, courage, and honesty.

✅ Justice Model

Introduced by John Rawls, this model emphasises fairness and equality in decision-making. An ethical decision is one that follows principles of justice, such as supporting equal opportunities and protecting the vulnerable and those in need.

✅ Ethics of Care

This model focuses on relationships, responsibility toward others, and empathy. It highlights the importance of considering the needs of others, respecting them, and caring for them. The model is based on the works of Carol Gilligan and Nel Noddings.

✅ Intuitionism

This decision-making model gives primary importance to intuition as the main source of knowledge and the foundation for ethical decision-making. It relies on an internal sense of what is right or wrong and personal judgment. The model is based on the works of George Edward Moore and William David Ross.

👉 If any of these models interest you, look for more information online or use inspiration from recommended resources. You may find that some models complement each other, focus on different aspects, or even contradict one another. This only confirms that ethical decision-making is not simple. However, by learning about these models, you will be better equipped to make decisions aligned with your values and widely accepted ethical principles.