Ethical Dilemmas in Business
Definition
An ethical dilemma is a situation where a decision must be made between two or more morally conflicting options, none of which is clearly right or wrong.
Introduction
Ethical dilemmas test character more than competence. They arise when doing good for one stakeholder harms another.
Explanation
1️⃣ Types of Dilemmas – Truth vs loyalty, individual vs community, short-term vs long-term.
2️⃣ Common Triggers – Pressure for profits, conflicting roles, cultural differences.
3️⃣ Approach – Define values involved; weigh consequences.
4️⃣ Resolution – Choose the least harmful and most principled option.
5️⃣ Documentation – Record reasoning for transparency and learning.
Key Takeaways
Every dilemma has a teachable moment.
The “lesser evil” principle may apply.
Integrity means consistency even in confusion.
Real-World Case
Johnson & Johnson’s recall of Tylenol (1982) remains a classic ethical response to a deadly dilemma—protecting consumers at massive cost.
Reference: https://www.jnj.com