Topic for Apr. 4. ( Tue )

[Alex !]

Moral Dilemma Questions

A moral dilemma is a conflict in which a person must choose between two or more actions, all of which they have the ability to do. Dilemmas related to family, friends and issues of close interest to an individual present situations where a dilemma arises.

It becomes difficult to make choices when a person needs to pick between friends, family members, or careers and general life situations. A moral dilemma refers to a situation where an individual needs to make a choice but faces a conflicting situation between one or more alternatives.

Ideally, the choice they make presents a dilemma because every available option may be wrong or incorrect. This creates a situation where there is a conflict of morals or ethics. Moral dilemmas are important as they help individuals interrogate their moral standing and who they are in terms of the choices they make when presented with conflicting options or situations.There are moral reasons for each choice. Here are some questions for you.

1. You are failing a class you were required to take but totally hate. You have an on-line exam. If you fail the exam, you will fail the class. You can cheat without anyone knowing. Do you do so and pass the class?

2. Midnight Death

You have worked years to be successful in your father’s business. You felt you were obligated to take over as he worked his whole life to build the business left to him by his father. However, the large businesses in town have seriously cut into profits and for several years you and your family have just managed to scrape by.

Your father’s health has declined and he has been hospitalized. He has a substantial life insurance policy that expires at midnight. If he dies before midnight, you will inherit enough money to pursue a career you have always dreamed of and provide adequately for your family. Do you:

• Pinch the oxygen line making it possible for your Dad to die or smother him with a pillow?
• Tell your Dad the problem and let him suggest a solution and go by what he says?
• Do nothing as you cannot imagine living with yourself if you terminate your Dad’s life?

3. The Unfaithful Friend

You go out with your husband for dinner at a new restaurant you have not frequented before. It is in a part of town you rarely visit. You are shocked to see your friend’s spouse having dinner with a very young, attractive person. From the way they are behaving, it is obvious they are more than friends. The couple finish their meal and leave without seeing you. They behave very affectionately on the way out the door. Do you:

• Tell your friend, knowing you probably will not be believed and that it may ruin your friendship?
• Say nothing about seeing the couple as it is none of your business; they may even have an open relationship?