Ethical decisions are a part of daily life, whether we realize it or not. From choosing how to treat others to making choices about our actions at work or in personal relationships, ethics guide our decisions. Ethical behavior is essential for fostering trust, maintaining integrity, and ensuring fairness in various aspects of society. While some ethical decisions are clear-cut, others are more complex and require careful consideration of different perspectives.

The idiom “doing the right thing” reflects the importance of making decisions that align with one’s values and principles. In everyday situations, people often face choices that challenge their ethics. For example, a person might find a lost wallet. The ethical decision is whether to return it or keep it. Deciding to do the right thing, such as returning the wallet, demonstrates honesty and integrity. In this context, “doing the right thing” is about upholding moral standards, even when no one is watching.

Another important aspect of ethical decision-making is the idea of fairness, which is encapsulated in the idiom “level playing field.” Ensuring fairness involves treating everyone equally and providing equal opportunities. For example, in the workplace, ethical decisions often revolve around ensuring that all employees have an equal chance for promotion and are evaluated based on merit rather than favoritism. By creating a “level playing field,” individuals can contribute to a fair and just environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Finally, the idiom “take the high road” emphasizes the importance of choosing a path of integrity, even in challenging situations. When faced with difficult decisions, it can be tempting to take shortcuts or act unethically to achieve personal gain. However, taking the high road involves prioritizing honesty, transparency, and respect for others. It’s about making choices that may be more difficult in the short term but are ultimately the right thing to do in the long run.

In conclusion, ethical decision-making is essential in our personal and professional lives. By striving to do the right thing, ensure fairness, and take the high road, individuals can create positive outcomes and build trust in their relationships and communities.

VIEWPOINT QUESTIONS

Respond to the following questions. Refer back to the reading if needed.

1. The idiom “doing the right thing” reflects making moral decisions. How does this idiom relate to returning a lost wallet in an ethical context?

2. “Level playing field” emphasizes fairness. How does this idiom reflect the importance of fairness in decision-making at work or in other environments?

3. “Take the high road” suggests choosing integrity. How does this idiom apply to situations where it might be tempting to act unethically?

HOW WOULD YOU RESPOND

1. How would you respond if you found yourself in a situation where your personal gain conflicted with the ethical choice? Would you take the high road, or would it be tempting to go for the easier option?

2. How would you respond if you witnessed an unfair practice at work, like an employee being passed over for a promotion despite deserving it? Would you speak out or keep quiet?

3. How would you respond if you were asked to make an ethical decision that might harm someone else, even if it was necessary for the greater good? How would you balance your personal values with the larger impact?

REAL LIFE SCENARIO

You are in a meeting at work where your team is discussing a project proposal. During the conversation, you realize that one of the proposed strategies could unfairly benefit a few individuals while disadvantaging others. You feel uncomfortable about the situation, but you worry about causing tension if you speak up.

• How would you respond?

• Would you address the issue or remain silent to avoid conflict?