U3C1L6: Ethics in Leadership

Question 1

Ethical Dilemma

Answer 1

Situations involving choices where the options available are not fully ethical.

Question 2

Hypothetical

Answer 2

Based upon an imagined example or conjecture.

Question 3

What are some questions that can help you make ethical decisions?

Answer 3

• Would I be willing to explain to a jury why I chose this action?
• What would I think of this action if someone I disliked did it?

Question 4

What 6 questions can be helpful when confronted by an ethical dilemma?

Answer 4

• What options are available to resolve this dilemma?
• Which options are the most compelling? Why?
• How would you resolve the dilemma?
• What values did you rely on to make your decision?
• What consequences (if any) will your decision have on the others involved?
• Could you personally live with this decision? If not, examine other options to your dilemma.

Question 5

What are the 5 factors that help you determine your best course of action in a dilemma?

Answer 5

1. Which options are most compelling? (which one would work best in the situation)
2. How would you like to resolve the dilemma? (imagine how you’d like the situation resolved; do the right things)
3. What values did you rely on? (what values will you use that you learned in the past with family/friends)
4. What are the consequences to your actions? (think about the possible consequences to your actions and what would happen)
5. Can you live with your decision? (can you be able to live with your decision; it should be right)

Question 6

List some temptations that can lead you into unethical decisions.

Answer 6

• Setting impossible goals (leaders ask too much of their team and they only act to make themselves look good; pay attention to team/details)
• Placing self-interest ahead of ethical norms (act to improve their own personal situation to please their supervisors)
• Doing what you think other people want you to do (be honest and don’t give into peer pressure; don’t do what people want you to do to be popular)
• Using your position to threaten or harass subordinates (treat your team with respect and don’t motivate them through fear/threats)

Question 7

What are 3 ethical responsibilities that promote a healthy environment?

Answer 7

• Be a good role model
• Develop followers ethically
• Lead in such a way that you avoid putting your teammates into ethical dilemmas