Final answer:
The last step in ethical decision-making is to monitor the results. This involves evaluating the effectiveness of the decision and learning from its actual impact, which may include using a cost/benefit analysis or a utilitarian approach to ensure the greatest good for the most people.
Step-by-step explanation:
The last step in the basic model of ethical decision-making is to monitor the results. After making a decision based on ethical considerations, it is imperative to follow up to see the outcomes and determine whether the decision had the intended positive impact, or if there were any unforeseen repercussions. This step is about evaluating the efficacy of the decision-making process and learning from the results for future decisions.
For example, after employing a cost/benefit analysis in decision-making, an individual may decide to invest in a project based on the perceived benefits outweighing the costs. Once the decision has been made and implemented, they would assess the actual impact, comparing if the benefits truly materialized as expected and outweighed the incurred costs.
In a broader ethical context, a utilitarian approach would require not just monitoring the results but also ensuring that the actions taken yielded the greatest good for the greatest number of people. In this approach, the consequences of one's actions are the primary focus, echoing the ideals of consequentialism and utilitarianism, which espouse the maximization of overall happiness and well-being.