Final answer:
An ethical dilemma is a situation where one must choose between equally unsatisfactory alternatives, involving decisions that often conflict ethical standards and responsibilities. No clear right or wrong exists, and moral deliberation is required to reach a decision that aligns with ethical norms.
Step-by-step explanation:
An ethical dilemma refers to a situation where one must choose between equally unsatisfactory alternatives. This often occurs when faced with decisions that pit moral or ethical principles against each other, requiring one to prioritize or balance conflicting values or responsibilities. For example, a medical professional may have to choose between preserving patient confidentiality and protecting potential harm to others, which is an ethical dilemma because both options uphold important ethical standards but are mutually exclusive.In essence, ethical dilemmas often involve complex situations where there is no clear-cut right or wrong answer, but rather a need to weigh the consequences of different courses of action and their impact on various stakeholders. It is important to carefully consider the outcomes of each option and strive to make an informed decision that aligns with ethical principles and the greater good.While business ethics may involve dilemmas such as balancing profit with legality, and professional ethics in fields like statistics may require a nuanced approach to identifying violations, all ethical dilemmas share the common need for moral deliberation and application of ethical norms.