Final answer:
Summarizing options of a decision based on their strengths and weaknesses across different ethical theories is beneficial as it provides a broader perspective on moral reasoning and helps identify underlying values, offering moral guidance for decisions.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is generally beneficial to summarize the options of a decision by evaluating their strengths and weaknesses in light of various ethical theories. When we consider six ethical theories and analyze the potential outcomes of each option through those lenses, we can better understand the complex landscape of moral reasoning. For instance, theories such as pluralism, utilitarianism, and Rawls's theory of justice all offer different criteria for assessing the ethical merits of a decision. The maximal-minimum principle, for example, urges us to choose an option that would benefit the least advantaged in society the most, hence encouraging a more equal distribution of advantages.
Reflecting on ethical theories can reveal our own underlying values and provide moral guidance for our decisions. However, objectivity can be a challenge, as individuals may struggle with cognitive biases or the influence of upbringing and social circles. Moreover, applying ethical reasoning to real-world situations, like the sunk costs in a just-war scenario, often presents complexities that exceed the straightforward application of ethical principles. Engaging in a process of dialectical inquiry helps in evaluating and reevaluating the options, ensuring a more thorough ethical analysis.
Ultimately, while there is no single universal ethical principle that governs all situations, the practice of systematically weighing the pros and cons of each option through these ethical frameworks can greatly enhance the decision-making process. This method avoids collapsing morality into mere power struggles or self-serving exercises, instead imbuing our choices with reasoned ethical consideration.