Guiding Ethical Exploration Script

Warm-Up: Ethical Icebreaker (5 minutes)

"Good morning/afternoon, everyone! Welcome. Before we dive deep into today's topic, let's get our brains warmed up with a quick ethical icebreaker. Take a look at the prompt on the screen from our Slide Deck: Ethics Unlocked."

"Prompt: You find a wallet full of money on the street. No one is around. What do you do? Why?"

"Take about two minutes to chat with the person next to you. Share your immediate thoughts and, more importantly, why you would make that choice. There's no wrong answer here, just honest reflection."

(Pause for 2 minutes for partner discussion)

"Alright, let's hear from a few pairs. Who would like to share what you and your partner discussed? What was your initial instinct, and what was the reasoning behind it?"

(Facilitate a brief class share-out. Acknowledge different perspectives without judgment. Transition smoothly.)

"Excellent points, everyone. You've already started thinking ethically without even realizing it! Today, we're going to formalize this process and give you some tools to navigate these kinds of decisions more effectively."

Introduction to Ethical Reasoning (10 minutes)

"As you can see on the Slide Deck: Ethics Unlocked, our topic today is 'Your Moral Compass: An Introduction to Ethical Reasoning.'"

"So, what exactly is ethical reasoning? At its core, it's about making thoughtful decisions when faced with a moral problem or dilemma. It's about asking not just 'what should I do?' but 'what is the right thing to do, and why is it the right thing?'"

"Why is this important? Think about it: every day, in our personal lives, our studies, and certainly in our future careers, we're confronted with choices that have moral dimensions. From small decisions about honesty to larger ones about social justice, understanding how to reason ethically is a fundamental life skill. It helps us navigate complexity, build integrity, and contribute positively to our communities."

"Today, we'll learn about some established ways, or 'frameworks,' that philosophers and thinkers have used for centuries to approach these tough questions."

Reading & Framework Overview (10 minutes)

"I'm going to hand out a short Reading: Foundations of Ethics that introduces three main ethical frameworks. Take about 5 minutes to read the first few sections, focusing on understanding the basic idea behind Utilitarianism, Deontology, and Virtue Ethics. Don't worry about memorizing every detail, just grasp the core concept."

(Distribute reading and pause for 5 minutes.)

"Okay, let's quickly review what you just read. Looking at the Slide Deck: Ethics Unlocked again:

• Utilitarianism: Who can tell me, in their own words, the main idea behind utilitarianism? (Pause for answers). Exactly! It's all about consequences, striving for 'the greatest good for the greatest number.' Think about public policy decisions – often they're trying to achieve the best outcome for the most people.

• Deontology: What about deontology? What's the key principle here? (Pause for answers). Right! It's about duty, rules, and moral obligations. Actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of their outcome. Think about universal human rights – these are duties we believe apply to everyone.

• Virtue Ethics: And finally, virtue ethics. How is this different from the other two? (Pause for answers). Precisely! It's less about specific actions or outcomes and more about who you are as a person – developing good character traits like honesty, courage, and compassion.

"Are there any immediate questions about these three frameworks? We'll be applying them shortly, so a basic understanding is key."

Activity: Ethical Dilemma Deep Dive (15 minutes)

"Now it's your turn to be ethical detectives! Look at the Slide Deck: Ethics Unlocked for our next challenge: 'The Community Project Dilemma.'"

(Read the dilemma aloud: "A student group is working on a community service project. They have limited funds. They can either: A) Fund a project that will help a large number of people in a small way (e.g., provide basic school supplies to many students). Or, B) Fund a project that will dramatically help a smaller number of people in a significant way (e.g., provide comprehensive tutoring and mentorship to a few at-risk students). Which option should they choose and why? Use ethical frameworks to justify your answer.")

"I'm going to divide you into small groups of 3-4. Each group will receive a Worksheet: Ethical Framework Application. Your task is to analyze this dilemma using at least two of the ethical frameworks we just discussed. How would a utilitarian approach it? How about a deontologist or someone focused on virtue?"

"Work together, discuss your reasoning, and be prepared to share your group's conclusion and justification with the class in about 10-12 minutes."

(Divide students, distribute worksheets. Circulate, listen to discussions, and offer guiding questions like: "Which framework are you finding most helpful here?" or "What are the potential downsides of that approach?")

Discussion: Case Study Challenge (10 minutes)

"Alright everyone, let's bring it back together. That was a challenging scenario, and I heard some great discussions happening. Who would like to start by sharing their group's analysis of the Community Project Dilemma? Which option did you choose (A or B), and how did you use the ethical frameworks to justify your choice?"

(Facilitate discussion. Encourage groups to explain their reasoning, compare and contrast different frameworks, and respectfully challenge each other's perspectives. Ask probing questions: "Did anyone change their mind after discussing it through an ethical framework lens?" or "What are the strengths and weaknesses of applying Utilitarianism to this problem?")

"This exercise highlights that there isn't always one 'right' answer, but rather more ethically reasoned answers. The frameworks provide us with a systematic way to think through complex problems."

Game: Moral Maze Challenge (5 minutes)

"To quickly solidify our understanding of these terms, let's play a rapid-fire game called the Game: Moral Maze Challenge! I'll read a statement, and you'll quickly tell me if it primarily aligns with Utilitarianism, Deontology, or Virtue Ethics. Ready?"

(Lead the quick game with prepared statements, guiding students to identify the correct framework. For example: "Focusing on always telling the truth, no matter the consequences." (Deontology). "Choosing to donate to a charity that helps the most people." (Utilitarianism). "Striving to be a compassionate and honest person." (Virtue Ethics).)

"Great job, everyone! You're really getting the hang of these concepts."

Quiz: Ethical Concepts Check (5 minutes)

"Before we wrap up, let's do a quick Quiz: Ethical Concepts Check. This isn't a high-stakes test, just a short check-in to see what you've understood from today's session. Please complete it individually."

(Distribute quiz and allow students 3-4 minutes to complete. Collect when done. Remind them that the full Test: Comprehensive Ethics Assessment will be later.)

Cool Down: Ethical Takeaway (5 minutes)

"As we finish up, please take a moment to complete the Cool Down: Ethical Takeaway. What is one key idea or insight about ethical reasoning that you're taking away from today's lesson? Write it down, and we'll collect them as you leave. Your responses help me see what resonated most with you. Thank you all for your active participation today!"

Warm-Up: Ethical Icebreaker

Instructions: Read the scenario below and discuss your immediate thoughts with a partner. Be prepared to share your reasoning with the class.

Scenario:

You are walking down a deserted street and find a wallet on the ground. You open it and see it contains a significant amount of cash, as well as an ID with the owner's name and address. No one else is in sight.

What do you do?

Why did you choose that action? What factors influenced your decision?

Foundations of Ethics

What is Ethics?

Ethics is a branch of philosophy that explores moral principles and values. It seeks to answer fundamental questions about what is right and wrong, good and bad, and how we ought to live. Ethical reasoning provides us with tools to analyze complex situations and make informed decisions that align with our moral compass.

Key Ethical Frameworks

Throughout history, philosophers have developed various frameworks to understand and navigate ethical dilemmas. While each framework offers a unique perspective, they all aim to guide human behavior towards what is considered morally justifiable.

1. Utilitarianism: The Greatest Good

Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that asserts that the most moral choice is the one that maximizes overall well-being or happiness for the greatest number of people. It is a consequentialist theory, meaning that the morality of an action is judged by its outcomes or consequences. If an action leads to more happiness and less suffering for the majority, it is considered ethical.

• Core Idea: The best action is the one that produces the greatest good for the greatest number.
• Focus: Outcomes and consequences.
• Example: A government deciding to build a new hospital that will serve thousands of people, even if it means relocating a few families.

2. Deontology: Duty and Rules

Deontology, derived from the Greek word deon meaning duty, focuses on moral duties, rules, and obligations. Unlike utilitarianism, deontological ethics argues that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of their consequences. Moral actions are those that adhere to a set of universal rules or principles.

• Core Idea: Actions are morally right if they adhere to duties and rules, irrespective of outcomes.
• Focus: Moral obligations, duties, and rules.
• Example: Always telling the truth because honesty is a moral duty, even if telling a lie might lead to a more favorable outcome in a specific situation.

3. Virtue Ethics: Character and Morality

Virtue ethics takes a different approach by focusing on the character of the moral agent rather than on specific actions or their consequences. It asks what a virtuous person would do in a given situation. The goal is to cultivate virtuous traits (like honesty, compassion, courage, justice) that lead to a morally good life.

• Core Idea: Focus on developing good character traits and living a virtuous life.
• Focus: The moral character of the agent.
• Example: A person choosing to help a stranger in need because they are a compassionate person, not because of a rule or the expected outcome.

Activity: Ethical Dilemma Deep Dive

Goal: To analyze a real-world ethical dilemma using the ethical frameworks we've discussed.

Instructions:

1. Form Groups: Work in your assigned small groups (3-4 students).

2. Review the Dilemma: Re-read the "Community Project Dilemma" presented on the Slide Deck: Ethics Unlocked:

   A student group is working on a community service project. They have limited funds. They can either:

   A) Fund a project that will help a large number of people in a small way (e.g., provide basic school supplies to many students).

   B) Fund a project that will dramatically help a smaller number of people in a significant way (e.g., provide comprehensive tutoring and mentorship to a few at-risk students).

3. Apply Frameworks: As a group, discuss the dilemma through the lens of at least two of the following ethical frameworks:

   • Utilitarianism: What decision would a utilitarian make, and why?
   • Deontology: What decision would a deontologist make, and why?
   • Virtue Ethics: What decision would someone focused on virtue make, and why?

4. Complete Worksheet: Use the Worksheet: Ethical Framework Application to record your group's analysis and conclusions.

5. Prepare to Share: Be ready to share your group's chosen option (A or B) and explain your ethical justification to the class, referencing the frameworks you used.

Time Allotment: 15 minutes for group discussion and worksheet completion.

Discussion: Case Study Challenge

Goal: To share and critically evaluate different ethical approaches to a shared dilemma.

Instructions for the class:

1. Group Sharing: Each group will briefly present their analysis of the "Community Project Dilemma." Clearly state which option (A or B) your group chose and explain your reasoning using the ethical frameworks you applied.

2. Active Listening: Listen respectfully to other groups' presentations. Think about similarities and differences in reasoning.

3. Open Discussion: After each group shares, we will open the floor for questions and comments. Consider the following:

   • Were there any frameworks that seemed more challenging or more straightforward to apply to this dilemma?
   • Did any group's perspective make you reconsider your own initial thoughts?
   • Can different ethical frameworks lead to equally valid, yet different, conclusions?
   • What are the potential real-world implications of choosing option A versus option B?

4. Respectful Debate: Engage in thoughtful debate, focusing on the ethical reasoning and the application of frameworks, rather than personal opinions.

Time Allotment: 10 minutes

Worksheet: Ethical Framework Application

Group Members:

Dilemma: The Community Project Dilemma

A student group is working on a community service project. They have limited funds. They can either:

A) Fund a project that will help a large number of people in a small way (e.g., provide basic school supplies to many students).

B) Fund a project that will dramatically help a smaller number of people in a significant way (e.g., provide comprehensive tutoring and mentorship to a few at-risk students).

Instructions: Discuss the dilemma in your group and analyze it using at least two different ethical frameworks. Record your analysis below.

Ethical Framework 1:

Which Framework are you applying? (e.g., Utilitarianism, Deontology, Virtue Ethics)

How would this framework guide a decision in this scenario? Which option (A or B) would it likely favor, and why?

What are the strengths of using this framework for this dilemma?

What are the weaknesses or potential challenges of using this framework for this dilemma?

Ethical Framework 2:

Which Framework are you applying? (e.g., Utilitarianism, Deontology, Virtue Ethics)

How would this framework guide a decision in this scenario? Which option (A or B) would it likely favor, and why?

What are the strengths of using this framework for this dilemma?

What are the weaknesses or potential challenges of using this framework for this dilemma?

Group Conclusion:

Based on your discussions and framework analysis, which option (A or B) does your group recommend, and why?

Game: Moral Maze Challenge

Goal: Quickly identify which ethical framework best aligns with each statement.

Instructions: Your teacher will read a statement. For each statement, decide whether it primarily aligns with Utilitarianism, Deontology, or Virtue Ethics. Be ready to shout out your answer or raise a hand for your chosen framework!

Statements:

1. "Always keep your promises, no matter how inconvenient, because it's the right thing to do."
   
   
   Framework: __________________

2. "When making a decision, I try to choose the option that will create the most happiness and benefit for the largest number of people."
   
   
   Framework: __________________

3. "A truly good leader acts with honesty and integrity in all situations, setting an example for others."
   
   
   Framework: __________________

4. "It is wrong to lie, even if lying could prevent someone from being hurt."
   
   
   Framework: __________________

5. "The goal is to cultivate a character rich in compassion, courage, and wisdom."
   
   
   Framework: __________________

6. "Policies should be designed to maximize the overall well-being of society."
   
   
   Framework: __________________

7. "Stealing is inherently wrong, regardless of the circumstances that might lead someone to steal."
   
   
   Framework: __________________

8. "A good person is someone who consistently acts out of kindness and generosity."
   
   
   Framework: __________________

(Teacher Note: After each statement, confirm the correct answer and briefly explain why, reinforcing understanding.)

Answer Key: Ethical Reasoning Solutions

Game: Moral Maze Challenge

1. "Always keep your promises, no matter how inconvenient, because it's the right thing to do."
   Framework: Deontology (Focus on duty/rule, regardless of outcome)

2. "When making a decision, I try to choose the option that will create the most happiness and benefit for the largest number of people."
   Framework: Utilitarianism (Focus on consequences/greatest good)

3. "A truly good leader acts with honesty and integrity in all situations, setting an example for others."
   Framework: Virtue Ethics (Focus on character traits)

4. "It is wrong to lie, even if lying could prevent someone from being hurt."
   Framework: Deontology (Focus on inherent rightness/wrongness of the act)

5. "The goal is to cultivate a character rich in compassion, courage, and wisdom."
   Framework: Virtue Ethics (Focus on developing virtues)

6. "Policies should be designed to maximize the overall well-being of society."
   Framework: Utilitarianism (Focus on collective outcomes)

7. "Stealing is inherently wrong, regardless of the circumstances that might lead someone to steal."
   Framework: Deontology (Focus on the rule against stealing)

8. "A good person is someone who consistently acts out of kindness and generosity."
   Framework: Virtue Ethics (Focus on character and consistent virtuous actions)

Quiz: Ethical Concepts Check

1. Which ethical framework focuses on achieving 'the greatest good for the greatest number'?
   Correct Answer: Utilitarianism

2. An action is considered morally right if it adheres to duties and rules, regardless of its consequences. This statement best describes which ethical framework?
   Correct Answer: Deontology

3. Which ethical framework emphasizes the development of moral character and virtues like honesty and compassion?
   Correct Answer: Virtue Ethics

4. Briefly explain the core difference between Utilitarianism and Deontology.
   Guidance for Answer: Students should explain that Utilitarianism focuses on the consequences or outcomes of actions, aiming for the greatest good for the greatest number. Deontology, in contrast, focuses on duties, rules, and moral obligations, asserting that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of their outcomes.

Test: Comprehensive Ethics Assessment

1. Which ethical framework would support a decision to sacrifice one person's life to save five others?
   Correct Answer: Utilitarianism

2. Immanuel Kant is a prominent philosopher associated with which ethical framework?
   Correct Answer: Deontology

3. The idea of developing a 'good character' through practicing virtues like courage and honesty is central to which ethical framework?
   Correct Answer: Virtue Ethics

4. Describe an ethical dilemma you have personally faced or observed. How might you analyze this dilemma using two different ethical frameworks (e.g., Utilitarianism and Virtue Ethics)?
   Guidance for Answer: Students should clearly describe a dilemma. Their analysis should demonstrate an understanding of the chosen frameworks by correctly applying their principles to the dilemma. For instance, if using Utilitarianism, they should discuss the potential outcomes for all involved parties. If using Virtue Ethics, they should discuss what a virtuous person would do or which virtues are relevant. The analysis should highlight how each framework would guide a decision and consider the strengths and weaknesses of each approach in that specific context.

5. To what extent do you agree with the statement: 'Ethical frameworks provide clear and unambiguous answers to all moral problems.'
   Guidance for Answer: Students should generally express disagreement or neutrality, and their reasoning should reflect the understanding that while frameworks provide guidance, ethical dilemmas are often complex and involve trade-offs, making definitive 'answers' rare. A strong answer will acknowledge the utility of frameworks for structured reasoning while also noting the nuances and challenges of real-world application. Students might discuss how different frameworks can lead to different 'right' answers, or how personal interpretation plays a role.

My Ethical Blueprint Project Guide

Project Goal

To develop a personal "Ethical Blueprint" that outlines your core ethical values, principles, and a practical approach to navigating ethical dilemmas in your personal and professional life.

Why an Ethical Blueprint?

Just as architects use blueprints to guide their building projects, you can use an ethical blueprint to guide your decision-making. This project will help you clarify your own moral compass and develop a systematic way to approach tough choices.

Deliverables

Your project will consist of the following components:

1. Personal Ethical Statement (200-300 words): Articulate your fundamental ethical values and principles. What do you believe is truly important when it comes to right and wrong? What guides your actions?

2. Analysis of Two Ethical Frameworks (300-400 words): Choose two of the ethical frameworks we discussed (Utilitarianism, Deontology, Virtue Ethics, or others you research). Explain each framework in your own words and discuss how they resonate with your personal ethical statement. Which framework(s) do you find most applicable to your life, and why?

3. Real-World Ethical Dilemma Analysis (400-500 words): Identify a real-world ethical dilemma (from current events, your personal experience, or a fictional scenario) that interests you.

   • Clearly describe the dilemma and the key stakeholders involved.
   • Analyze the dilemma using both of the frameworks you chose in Deliverable #2. How would each framework guide a decision in this scenario? What would be the strengths and weaknesses of each approach?
   • Propose your own ethically reasoned solution, explaining which framework(s) most influenced your decision and why.

4. Action Plan for Ethical Growth (150-200 words): Based on your blueprint, what steps will you take to continuously develop your ethical reasoning skills? This could include reading ethical philosophy, engaging in ethical discussions, or consciously reflecting on your decisions.

Project Structure

Your final submission should be a well-organized document (e.g., essay, report, or presentation slides with detailed notes) that clearly addresses each deliverable. You may use headings, bullet points, and other formatting to make your blueprint clear and easy to understand.

Assessment

Your project will be assessed using the Rubric: Ethical Blueprint Assessment which focuses on the clarity of your ethical statement, the depth of your framework analysis, the thoroughness of your dilemma analysis, and the thoughtfulness of your action plan.

Important Dates

• Project Introduction: [Today's Date]
• Questions/Check-in: [One Week from Today]
• Final Submission: [Two Weeks from Today]

Tips for Success

• Start early and break down the project into smaller steps.
• Don't be afraid to grapple with difficult questions; ethical reasoning is rarely straightforward.
• Use examples from your own experiences or observations to illustrate your points.
• Seek feedback from peers or the instructor during the process.
• Your blueprint is a living document; it can evolve as you grow and learn.

Rubric: Ethical Blueprint Assessment

Project: My Ethical Blueprint

Student Name: _________________________

Date: _________________________

Comments:

Cool Down: Ethical Takeaway

Instructions: Before you leave, please take a moment to reflect on today's lesson on ethical reasoning.

What is one key idea, insight, or question about ethical reasoning that you are taking away from today's class?

Optional: How might this idea influence a decision you make in the future?