Business and Ethical Decision Making - Essay Example

Philosophers have found it hard to give a standard definition for ethical decision-making. Ethics on its own refers to the moral code of conduct based on social values (Nelson & Quick, 2008). When linked with decision making, scholars define it as the process of choosing one option over all other alternatives about legal and moral concepts acceptable to the larger community (Johns, 1991).

Ethical decision-making relates to general decision-making; therefore, both parts share the same principles. Some of the decision-making principles include:

• Ethical relativism (self-interest), which states that making ethical choices depends on an individual’s customs, values, and held religious beliefs. In general decision-making, a leader should make a decision based on the values and beliefs of the firm.

• Utilitarianism (benefit) refers to the advantages of a decision. The moral strength and efficiency of a depend on its positive results. Leaders make a decision based on the advantages they gain out of those choices.

• Universalism- A sound choice needs to apply to all people inclusive of diverse races and religions. A universal decision should apply to everyone without any discrimination. Mangers in an institution ought to come up with decisions, which accommodate everyone concerned including the public.

• Rights- while developing decisions, one needs to engage the rights and freedoms of people. In over a decision-making a manager needs to include the rights and freedoms of every employee working in the organization justice- people need to make fair choices, which promote equality among employees and theist (Bazerman, 1998).

The principles above provide a set of guidelines, which draw a path for individuals while making personal and professional decisions. They have also assisted in guiding the DHL Company over the years enabling it to maintain its position in the market and to give it international competitive edge. The company deals with many people around the world, therefore, principles such as justice, rights, and universalism apply in its moral decision making.

The Importance of ethical decision making

It assists in the evaluation of personal and managerial skills. The decision-making process consumes much of a person’s or firm’s time. It also involves critical analysis and evaluation of available options with the intent of coming up one sufficient option (Handelsman, 2002).