Interactive Group
Exercise
Applying the Ethical DecisionMaking Tree
1
Objectives
1.
2.
To introduce students to the ethical
decision-making tree.
To apply the decision-making tree to an
ethics scenario.
2
Instructions
1.
2.
3.
4.
Break into groups.
Listen to or read the scenario.
Use the ethical decision-making tree to
arrive at a solution.
Representatives share with the class
your group’s decision and how this
decision reflects the use of the ethical
decision-making tree.
3
Ethical Decision-Making Tree
Yes
Do it.
Is it ethical?
Yes
No
Yes
Does it
maximize
shareholder
value?
Is the
proposed
action legal?
No
No
Don’t do it.
Yes
Don’t do it.
Don’t do it.
Would it be
ethical not to
take action?
No
Source: Bagley C.E. (2003 February). The Ethical Leader’s Decision
Tree. Harvard Business Review p. 19
Do it.
4