Ethics Unlocked: What Would You Do?

Think about a time you had to make a tough decision. Maybe it was about telling the truth, sharing something, or standing up for what's right.

Briefly describe the situation and what you chose to do.










Do you think you made the right decision? Why or why not?

Ethical Reasoning Foundations

## What is Ethical Reasoning?
Ethical reasoning is the process of thinking about moral problems, weighing different options, and making choices based on principles of right and wrong. It's how we decide what we should do, not just what we can do. This skill is vital in all aspects of life, from personal choices to global issues.

## Why is it Important?
Developing strong ethical reasoning skills helps you to:
* Understand different perspectives: You learn to see situations from various viewpoints, even those you don't initially agree with.
* Make informed decisions: Instead of acting impulsively, you can calmly analyze situations and choose actions that align with your values.
* Navigate complex situations: Life often presents dilemmas with no easy answers. Ethical reasoning provides a framework to approach these challenges thoughtfully.
* Become a responsible citizen: In a world filled with diverse cultures and beliefs, ethical reasoning helps you contribute positively to your community and society.

## Key Ethical Frameworks
When we reason ethically, we often draw upon different frameworks. Here are two common ones:

### 1. Deontology (Duty-Based Ethics)
* Focus: Actions themselves, rather than their consequences. Some actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of the outcome.
* Key Idea: We have certain duties or rules that we must follow. These rules are universal and apply to everyone.
* Example: Lying is always wrong, even if telling a lie might lead to a good outcome. The act of lying itself is seen as unethical.

### 2. Consequentialism (Outcome-Based Ethics)
* Focus: The outcomes or consequences of actions. The morality of an action is determined by its results.
* Key Idea: The best action is the one that produces the greatest good for the greatest number of people (often associated with Utilitarianism).
* Example: If telling a small lie prevents a much larger harm and benefits many people, a consequentialist might argue it's the right thing to do.

## Steps in Ethical Reasoning
While there isn't one single perfect method, a common approach involves:
1. Identify the Ethical Dilemma: What is the core conflict or problem? Who are the stakeholders involved?
2. Gather Information: What are the facts of the situation? Are there any missing details?
3. Identify Possible Actions: What are the different ways you could respond to this dilemma?
4. Consider Consequences: For each action, what are the potential positive and negative outcomes for all involved?
5. Apply Ethical Frameworks/Principles: How would deontology or consequentialism guide your decision? Are there any other moral principles (like fairness, honesty, compassion) that apply?
6. Make a Decision: Choose the action you believe is most ethically sound, providing reasons for your choice.
7. Reflect: After the decision and outcome, reflect on what happened. What did you learn? Would you do anything differently next time?

Ethical reasoning isn't about finding the only right answer, but about developing a thoughtful and justifiable approach to moral challenges.

Ethics Unlocked: Teacher Script

Slide 1: Welcome to Ethics Unlocked!

"Good morning/afternoon, everyone! Welcome to 'Ethics Unlocked: Make Your Mark.' Today, we're diving into a really important topic: how we think about what's right and wrong, and how we make tough decisions. This isn't just about school; it's about life, and how you'll navigate the tricky choices you'll face every day. Get ready to do some serious thinking!"

Slide 2: Warm-Up: What Would You Do?

"Let's start with a quick warm-up. I want you to think about a time you had to make a tough decision. It could be big or small, but something that made you pause and wonder what the 'right' thing to do was. Maybe it was about being honest, sharing something, or even standing up for a friend."

"On your Ethics Unlocked: Warm Up sheet, briefly describe the situation and what you chose to do. Then, think about whether you believe you made the right decision and, most importantly, why or why not. Take about 3 minutes for this."

(Pause for 3 minutes while students write.)

"Alright, who'd like to share a quick summary of their situation and their decision-making process? Remember, there's no right or wrong answer here, we're just exploring how we think about these things. What did you consider when you made your choice?"

(Facilitate a brief class discussion, encouraging students to explain their reasoning.)

Slide 3: What is Ethical Reasoning?

"Excellent shares, everyone. What you were all doing in that warm-up is a perfect example of ethical reasoning. So, what exactly is it?"

"Ethical reasoning is the process of thinking about moral problems, weighing different options, and making choices based on principles of right and wrong. It's about deciding what we should do, not just what we can do. This skill is incredibly vital because it helps you understand different perspectives, make informed decisions, navigate complex situations, and become a responsible citizen in our increasingly interconnected world."

"We'll be looking at some of these ideas in more detail in your Ethical Reasoning Foundations Reading."

Slide 4: Ethical Frameworks: Deontology

"Now, when we think about right and wrong, people often use different ways of looking at problems, almost like different lenses. We're going to explore two big ones today, starting with Deontology."

"Deontology is all about duty-based ethics. The word 'deon' comes from a Greek word meaning 'duty.' So, deontology focuses on actions themselves. It asks: 'Is this action inherently right or wrong, regardless of what happens?' With deontology, some actions are simply always right, and some are always wrong, and these rules apply to everyone. For example, a strict deontologist might say, 'Lying is always wrong,' no matter the consequences."

"Can anyone think of another rule or duty that you might consider to be always right or always wrong?"

(Allow a few student responses.)

Slide 5: Ethical Frameworks: Consequentialism

"Now, let's look at a different lens: Consequentialism."

"As the name suggests, consequentialism is outcome-based ethics. It focuses on the results or consequences of actions. The main idea here is that the best action is the one that produces the greatest good for the greatest number of people. So, an action's morality is determined by its results. Going back to our lying example, a consequentialist might argue that if telling a small lie prevents a much larger harm and benefits many people, then it could be the right thing to do."

"Can you think of a situation where the outcome of an action might seem more important than the action itself?"

(Allow a few student responses.)

Slide 6: Frameworks in Action

"So, to sum up, Deontology says 'Rules first!' and Consequentialism says 'Outcomes first!' These aren't necessarily competing ideas; often, they offer different ways to approach a problem, and sometimes they even lead to the same conclusion!"

"Now that we have these two frameworks in our minds, let's put them into action. We're going to work through some real dilemmas. We'll start with a brief discussion using the Ethical Crossroads Discussion Guide to solidify your understanding."

(Transition to the discussion guide.)

Slide 7: Group Challenge: Moral Maze

"Excellent discussion, everyone! Now it's time for a group challenge. I'm going to give each of your groups an Ethical Dilemma Worksheet. On this worksheet, you'll find a scenario. Your task is to apply both the deontological and consequentialist frameworks to analyze the situation, discuss the possible actions, and come to a group decision, justifying it with ethical reasoning."

"Additionally, we'll be playing a quick Moral Maze Game! This game will present you with ethical challenges that you'll work collaboratively to solve. Think of it as a fun way to apply these concepts in real-time within your groups."

"You'll have about 15 minutes for this. I'll be circulating to listen in and help guide your discussions. Remember to explain your reasoning clearly!"

(Monitor group work and discussions.)

Slide 8: Show What You Know!

"Alright, great work discussing and navigating those dilemmas! To see how well you've grasped these concepts individually, we're going to take a short Ethical Reasoning Quiz. This will help me understand what we might need to review."

"Also, for a longer-term assignment, I want to introduce you to the 'My Ethical Project.' You'll find all the details in the My Ethical Project Guide, and how you'll be assessed is in the Ethical Project Rubric. This is a chance for you to dive deep into an ethical issue that matters to you."

"Once you finish the quiz, please hold onto it. The Ethical Reasoning Quiz Answer Key will be provided after all quizzes are collected."

(Distribute quizzes and project guides.)

Slide 9: Cool-Down: Ethical Choices

"As we wrap up today, let's do a final cool-down activity. On your Ethical Choices Cool Down sheet, I want you to answer two questions: 'What's one new thing you learned about ethical reasoning today?' and 'How might you use this skill in your own life outside of this classroom?'"

"This reflection is super important because it helps you connect what we learned in class to your own experiences. Take about 2-3 minutes to write your thoughts."

(Allow students to write. Collect cool-down sheets and quizzes.)

"Thank you, everyone, for an insightful lesson today. Keep thinking ethically!"

Ethical Dilemma Worksheet: What's the Right Call?

Instructions: Read the following scenario. In your groups, discuss the ethical dilemma using the questions provided. Apply the ethical frameworks of Deontology and Consequentialism to analyze the situation and come to a reasoned decision. Be prepared to share your group's findings.

## Scenario: The Borrowed Homework

You and your friend, Alex, have a big history project due tomorrow. You've been working hard on your part, but Alex is struggling. Alex admits they completely forgot about the project and have nothing done. They beg you to let them copy your work, promising they'll never do it again and that they'll fail the class if they don't turn something in.

You know that copying is against school rules and that you could both get into serious trouble if caught. However, you also know Alex is going through a tough time at home, and failing this class would make things much worse for them.

### Discussion Questions:

1. Identify the Ethical Dilemma: What is the core conflict in this situation? Who are the main people (stakeholders) involved?







2. Possible Actions: What are at least three different ways you could respond to Alex's request?

a)

b)

c)







3. Applying Deontology (Duty-Based Ethics):
* What rules or duties come to mind in this situation (e.g., honesty, loyalty, following rules)?





* If you focus only on these duties, what would be the 'right' action, regardless of the outcome?







4. Applying Consequentialism (Outcome-Based Ethics):
* What are the potential positive and negative consequences for everyone involved (you, Alex, the teacher, other students) for each of your possible actions?

* Which action would lead to the greatest good for the greatest number of people, or minimize harm?







5. Your Group's Decision: Based on your ethical reasoning, what action would your group choose? Explain your decision, referencing both ethical frameworks if applicable.

Ethical Crossroads: Discussion Guide

Instructions: In your small groups, discuss the following questions. There are no right or wrong answers, but focus on explaining why you think what you do. Be ready to share some of your group's insights with the class.

Part 1: Understanding Ethical Reasoning

1. In your own words, how would you define ethical reasoning?
   
   
   
   
2. Why do you think it's important to develop strong ethical reasoning skills, especially as you get older and face more complex situations?
   
   
   
   
3. Can you think of a real-life situation (from news, movies, or personal experience) where someone had to use ethical reasoning?
   
   
   
   

Part 2: Exploring Ethical Frameworks

1. Briefly explain the main idea of Deontology (Duty-Based Ethics). What does it focus on?
   
   
   
   
2. Briefly explain the main idea of Consequentialism (Outcome-Based Ethics). What does it focus on?
   
   
   
   
3. Consider this statement: "It's wrong to steal, even if you're stealing bread to feed your starving family." Which ethical framework does this statement align more closely with? Why?
   
   
   
   
   
   
4. Consider this statement: "If telling a small lie prevents a war, it's the right thing to do." Which ethical framework does this statement align more closely with? Why?
   
   
   
   
   
   
5. Do you think one framework is always better than the other? Why or why not?
   
   
   
   
   
   

Ethical Reasoning Challenge: Design a Solution

Instructions: In your groups, you will be presented with a challenge related to ethical behavior. Your task is to design a solution that addresses the ethical considerations using the frameworks we've discussed. You will then present your solution to the class.

The Challenge:

Your school is considering implementing a new policy: all students must wear uniforms. The school administration believes this will reduce bullying, improve focus, and create a more equitable environment. However, some students and parents are concerned about the cost of uniforms, the loss of individual expression, and potential discomfort.

Your Task:

1. Identify the Stakeholders: Who are the different groups of people affected by this policy? What are their main concerns or benefits?
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. Apply Deontology: If you were to apply a duty-based ethical lens, what rules or principles might guide a decision about school uniforms? What would a deontological approach suggest?
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. Apply Consequentialism: If you were to apply an outcome-based ethical lens, what are the potential positive and negative consequences of implementing (or not implementing) the uniform policy for all stakeholders? What would a consequentialist approach suggest?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
4. Propose a Solution: Based on your ethical reasoning, what policy or compromise would your group recommend regarding school uniforms? Your solution should consider both deontological and consequentialist perspectives. Justify your proposal clearly.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
5. Prepare to Present: Outline the key points of your discussion and your proposed solution to share with the class.

The Moral Maze: Ethical Choices Game

Players: Small groups (3-4 students)
Materials: Scenario Cards (provided by teacher), Decision Sheet (use Ethical Dilemma Worksheet or separate paper), timer.

How to Play:

1. Draw a Card: One student draws a Moral Maze Scenario Card from the pile.
2. Read the Dilemma: Read the ethical dilemma aloud to the group.
3. Discuss & Analyze (3 minutes): As a group, discuss the scenario.
   • Identify the core ethical dilemma.
   • Identify the stakeholders involved.
   • Brainstorm possible actions.
4. Apply Frameworks (5 minutes): Apply both Deontology and Consequentialism to the dilemma.
   • What would a deontological approach suggest (based on duties/rules)?
   • What would a consequentialist approach suggest (based on outcomes/greatest good)?
5. Make Your Decision & Justify (3 minutes): As a group, decide what action you would take. On your Decision Sheet, write down your chosen action and clearly justify it using your ethical reasoning and references to the frameworks.
6. Share & Reflect (optional, as a class): The teacher may ask groups to share their dilemmas and decisions with the class, explaining their reasoning.

Goal: The goal is not necessarily to find the

Moral Maze: Scenario Cards

Instructions: Cut out these cards. During the Moral Maze Game, each group will draw a card and discuss the dilemma.

Scenario Card 1: The Secret Shared

Your best friend tells you a secret about another friend that could get them into a lot of trouble. Your best friend makes you promise not to tell anyone. Later, you realize that keeping this secret could genuinely harm the friend the secret is about.

• Dilemma: Do you break your promise to protect someone from harm, or do you keep the promise, potentially allowing harm to occur?

Scenario Card 2: The Online Bully

You see a group of popular students online making fun of a less popular student. They are posting mean comments and pictures. You know that if you speak up, you might become a target yourself. However, you also know that the targeted student is really upset.

• Dilemma: Do you intervene and risk social backlash, or do you stay silent and allow the bullying to continue?

Scenario Card 3: The Found Wallet

You find a wallet on the school grounds. Inside, there's a significant amount of cash and a student ID. You recognize the student, and you know they've been struggling financially. You could easily keep the money, and no one would know.

• Dilemma: Do you return the wallet with all its contents, or do you keep the money for yourself, knowing the owner needs it?

Scenario Card 4: The Group Project Blame

In a group project, one member didn't do any work, but you all got a good grade because you and another member did everything. The teacher asks who contributed what. If you tell the truth, the lazy group member will fail. If you lie, everyone gets credit they didn't earn.

• Dilemma: Do you tell the truth and expose the lazy group member, or do you protect them and allow them to take unearned credit?

Scenario Card 5: The Environmental Choice

Your family is planning a trip. There are two options: a cheap flight to a distant, exciting destination, or a more expensive, local trip that involves less travel and has a much smaller carbon footprint. You care deeply about the environment, but your family is really excited about the cheaper, distant option.

• Dilemma: Do you advocate for the environmentally friendly option, potentially disappointing your family and increasing costs, or do you go along with the cheaper, less environmentally friendly plan?

Ethical Reasoning Quiz Answer Key

1. What is the primary focus of Deontology (Duty-Based Ethics)?

Correct Answer: The inherent rightness or wrongness of actions

• Thought Process: Deontology is derived from the Greek word 'deon' meaning duty. It emphasizes moral duties and rules as the basis for judging actions, regardless of their consequences. Therefore, the focus is on whether an action itself is right or wrong.

2. Which ethical framework is most concerned with the outcomes or results of an action?

Correct Answer: Consequentialism

• Thought Process: Consequentialism, as its name suggests, bases the morality of an action on its consequences or outcomes. If the outcome is good, the action is considered moral; if bad, it's considered immoral.

3. Describe a situation where a deontological approach might lead to a different decision than a consequentialist approach.

Example Answer:

• Deontological Approach: A deontologist might argue that telling a lie is always wrong, regardless of the situation, because lying violates a universal moral duty of honesty.
• Consequentialist Approach: A consequentialist might argue that telling a lie is acceptable if it leads to a significantly better outcome, such as saving lives or preventing a major disaster. For example, lying to a dictator about the location of innocent people to protect them would be justified by a consequentialist if it leads to the greatest good.

4. Why is ethical reasoning considered an important life skill?

Example Answer: Ethical reasoning is important because it helps individuals to:

• Make informed decisions: It allows people to analyze complex situations thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively.
• Understand different perspectives: By considering various ethical frameworks and stakeholders, individuals can better appreciate diverse viewpoints.
• Navigate complex moral dilemmas: Life often presents situations with no easy answers, and ethical reasoning provides a structured way to approach these challenges.
• Contribute positively to society: It fosters a sense of responsibility and helps individuals act in ways that benefit their communities and the wider world.

5. A student finds a lost phone. According to a strictly deontological perspective, which action is most aligned?

Correct Answer: Return the phone because it is a rule to be honest.

• Thought Process: A deontological perspective emphasizes adherence to moral duties and rules. The duty of honesty or returning lost property (as a form of respecting others' property rights) would dictate returning the phone, regardless of the consequences for the finder or the owner's financial situation. The act of returning it is seen as inherently right.

My Ethical Project: Deep Dive into Dilemmas

Objective: To demonstrate your understanding of ethical reasoning and frameworks by analyzing a real-world ethical dilemma and proposing a reasoned solution.

Project Overview

For this project, you will choose a contemporary ethical dilemma that interests you. This could be an issue from current events, a social problem, a technological challenge, or even a personal dilemma (with appropriate anonymity if personal). You will research the dilemma, apply the ethical frameworks we've discussed (Deontology and Consequentialism), and propose a well-reasoned solution or approach.

Project Components

Your project will consist of the following:

1. Dilemma Identification & Background (20% of Grade)

• Choose a Dilemma: Select an ethical dilemma that is relevant and complex.
• Provide Background: Briefly explain the dilemma, including key facts, history, and context.
• Identify Stakeholders: List all individuals or groups affected by this dilemma and briefly describe their perspectives or interests.

2. Ethical Analysis (40% of Grade)

• Deontological Analysis: Apply the principles of Deontology to your chosen dilemma. What duties, rules, or universal moral laws are relevant? What would a strictly duty-based approach suggest as the ethical action? Explain your reasoning.
• Consequentialist Analysis: Apply the principles of Consequentialism to your chosen dilemma. What are the potential positive and negative consequences of various actions for all stakeholders? What would an outcome-based approach suggest as the most ethical action (i.e., greatest good for the greatest number)? Explain your reasoning.
• Compare & Contrast: Briefly discuss how the two frameworks lead to similar or different conclusions in your chosen dilemma.

3. Proposed Solution & Justification (30% of Grade)

• Propose a Solution: Based on your ethical analysis, propose a well-reasoned solution or a recommended course of action for your dilemma.
• Justify Your Solution: Clearly explain why you believe your proposed solution is the most ethically sound. You should reference both deontological and consequentialist considerations in your justification.
• Consider Challenges: Acknowledge any potential challenges or counter-arguments to your proposed solution.

4. Presentation/Submission (10% of Grade)

• Your project can be submitted as a written essay (500-750 words), a presentation (5-7 minutes), or a creative project (e.g., short film, podcast episode, art piece) with a written explanation.
• Ensure your submission is clear, well-organized, and grammatically correct.

Important Dates

• Dilemma Choice Due: [Insert Date]
• Outline/Proposal Due: [Insert Date]
• Final Project Due: [Insert Date]

Refer to the Ethical Project Rubric for detailed grading criteria.

Ethical Project Rubric

Project Title: My Ethical Project: Deep Dive into Dilemmas
Student Name: ________________________
Date: ________________________

Ethical Choices: Cool Down

Instructions: Take a few minutes to reflect on today's lesson. Answer the following questions honestly.

1. What's one new thing you learned about ethical reasoning or ethical frameworks today?







2. How might you use the skill of ethical reasoning in your own life outside of this classroom? Think about personal decisions, interacting with others, or even understanding current events.