Final answer:
In business, not all situations are straightforward and when choosing among unclear alternatives, an ethical dilemma might occur. This is when decision-makers face options with conflicting ethical implications and no obviously right answer, often requiring compromise and consideration of various stakeholders' interests and values.
Step-by-step explanation:
In business, not all situations are straightforward. When choosing among alternatives that aren't clear-cut, a(n) ethical dilemma might occur. An ethical dilemma arises when there is a choice between options that may be right or wrong from an ethical standpoint and the appropriate action is not immediately apparent. Such dilemmas are common in business, where various stakeholders may have conflicting interests or values.
Causes of ethical dilemmas can include opposing preferences, allocation of resources, or differences in values and goals among those involved. For example, in negotiating terms between a buyer and seller, a compromise might be reached where both parties adjust their initial positions to come to a mutual agreement. This adjustment is not always straightforward and can present a dilemma if the parties have a strong adherence to their initial positions.
Another example could be a company deciding whether to outsource labor to countries with cheaper workforce but questionable working conditions. There is no easy resolution that satisfies all ethical perspectives, making it a quintessential ethical dilemma. On a larger scale, such situations can also relate to public policy decisions, such as those involving the death penalty, immigration, or climate change.