(Solution) CIPD 5CO02 different ethical perspectives influence decision-making

Short references should be added into your narrative below. Please remember to only list your long references in the reference box provided at the end of this section. Word count: Approximately 400 words

Utilitarianism

From a consequentialist ethical viewpoint, utilitarianism judges activities according to their overall results and effects (Jin & Peng, 2021). Seeking the greatest good for the largest number of people is the main tenet of utilitarianism. It places a higher priority on minimising pain or injury and increasing enjoyment or value. Utilitarianism urges decision-makers to consider the possible advantages and disadvantages of their choices for all parties involved. Ethically defensible choices are those that result in the greatest level of satisfaction and well-being overall. For instance, a manufacturing business could reduce its personnel to retain profitability while experiencing financial difficulties. Alternative cost-cutting strategies that put employee well-being first may be considered if the unfavourable effects of layoffs exceed the immediate financial gains.

Altruism

An ethical viewpoint known as altruism puts others’ needs ahead of one’s own. It promotes empathy, comprehension, and placing others’ needs above one’s own, even when doing so would entail putting one’s interests at risk. Altruistic decisions prioritise the welfare of individuals or groups over personal gain or organisational objectives (Bolis et al., 2021). It focuses on cultivating goodwill, promoting employee well-being, and serving the larger good. For instance, a generous boss could come into a circumstance where a worker is having trouble juggling professional obligations with personal problems. Instead of punishing the worker for lower output, the management adopts a sympathetic stance, providing assistance, flexible work schedules, or counselling options. This choice prioritises the worker’s welfare and reflects the company’s dedication to looking out for its employees.

Religion

Religious and ethical perspectives are based on religious beliefs’ teachings, principles, and moral values. These perspectives often emphasise honesty, integrity, respect for others, and adherence to divine commands or sacred texts. Religious ethics can significantly influence decision-making by providing moral guidelines and shaping personal values and behaviours (Jacek et al., 2020). Decision-makers may align their choices with religious teachings to uphold righteousness and spiritual growth. For instance, a religiously devout employee working in a marketing department is tasked with promoting a product that goes against their religious beliefs or values. A religious, ethical perspective may lead the employee to request reassignment to another project that aligns with their religious principles.

Short references should be added into your narrative below. Please remember to only list your long references in the reference box provided at the end of this section. Word count: Approximately 400 words