Ethical Perspective

Ethical Perspective

In this paper, I will discuss the results of my Ethics Awareness Inventory. Before discussing my results, I will give a detailed description on the four ethical perspectives the survey captured. I will discuss in details the areas I agree and disagree with and the reasons why. I will also discuss the areas the survey suggests where I need to improve.

Character/Virtue Perspectives

The individuals that fall under this perspective look at an individual’s character rather then his or her actions. They believe in traits such as honor, justice, and benevolence. This perspective believes people should strive to become morally good person. They have a difficult time understanding that not all people have the same values as they, and tend to get frustrated with individuals who do not. This perspective believes in development of character is a slow process that society has neglected. They also believe that ethical choices come from sound wisdom and good character.

Obligation/Deontology Perspective

This perspective is based on duty versus equality. An individual who exhibits this perspective believes that ethical conduct should appeal to an individual’s conscience. This perspective looks into an individual’s intent behind his or her actions. The means does not justify the ends. A person who has an obligatory perspective believes in order to be ethical, one must choose how to act and what rules he or she is willing to follow. To them, ethical principles must be appropriate, in any situation, respectful of human dignity, and committed to promoting individual freedom. Oftentimes, what this individual considers to be right, is not always the most beneficial.

Results/Utilitarian Perspective

This perspective is based on consequences of one’s actions. In assessing an individual’s ethical conduct, this person tends to look for concrete evidence. An ethical person not only talks the talk, but they must walk the as well. Processes and principles are...