Ethics in the Technical Workplace

Values come from personal ethics (family, culture, faith), social ethics (constitutional, legal, utilitarian, caring sources), and conservation ethics (protect and preserve the ecosystem in which we live).

The Golden Rule is an example of personal ethics. For social ethics, here is an ordering for making ethical decisions: issues involving rights > laws > utility > care. Conservation ethics are about sustainability and the health of humans and their community.

Resolving Ethical Dilemmas

• Personal - How does my upbringing in a family, culture, and faith guide my decision? How can I do unto others as I would have them do unto me?
• Social - What rights or laws are involved in my decision? What is the best for the majority? How can I demonstrate caring by being tolerant and compassionate?
• Conservation - How will my decision affect the ecosystem? Will my choice be ecologically sustainable in the long term?

When you Disagree with the Company

Persuasion through cost and benefits, seak legal advice, mediation, memos to file, and whistleblowing.