Final answer:
The most basic step when facing an ethical dilemma is to ask about the moral implications. Applied ethics offers various frameworks such as the Utilitarian Approach, deontological ethics, and virtue ethics to analyze and resolve these dilemmas. Considering the outcomes and the broader impact of our decisions is crucial in ethical decision-making.
Step-by-step explanation:
When facing an ethical dilemma, the first and most basic step is to ask: What are the moral implications? This question urges us to think deeply about the ethical principles involved in a situation before proceeding. It is essential to consider the potential impact of our actions on ourselves, others, and the broader society.
One approach to resolving ethical dilemmas is through applied ethics, which involves analysis and the application of ethical principles to real-world situations. For instance, the Utilitarian Approach would examine the action's consequences by calculating the greatest happiness for the greatest number. Alternatively, deontological ethics would have us focus on adherence to duty or rules, and virtue ethics on developing the right character traits. The consideration of the consequences, duty/rule adherence, or the cultivation of virtue are all part of the moral deliberation process.
In daily situations, whether it’s choosing the right fuel for a borrowed car or deciding on reducing plastic usage to help the environment, the choices we make can touch on the moral development and reinforce our understanding of morality in the context of both personal and societal relations. Examining the possible future results and unintended consequences of our actions are critical to ethical decision-making.