Analyzing 'Helping Molly' Using the Four Ethical Frameworks

Introduction

In the scenario ‘Helping Molly’, the teacher is faced with a number of ethical issues that must be resolved. The main ethical issue this essay will attempt to deconstruct using the four ethical frameworks is whether to agree or deny helping McJacks promote their fast food chain and receive a donation of instruments, even though their promotion contradicts the schools health program. Another underlying ethical issue is that of discrimination. McJacks has stipulated that Molly is not to be involved in the promotional shots as her ‘big build’ is not keeping with the image the company is trying to project.

Consequentialism

Consequentialism focuses on the consequences, outcomes and results of an action. (Holsinger, 2009) The idea is to eliminate the negative consequences to make the best possible decision. (Gensler, 2009)

Egoism:

Egoism relies on the idea that a person ought to do what is in their own self-interest. It is thinking about the consequences of an action, only considering how it best benefits them. (Kay, 1997)

In this scenario the best outcome for the teacher would be to not be held responsible regarding the decision to accept or deny the donation and promotion proposal. Therefore the teacher is able to avoid any repercussions that may arise as a result of the decision.

To reach this outcome the teacher ought to refer the decision on to other stakeholders involved in the scenario, such as, the principal, parents (P&C associations), and other staff members.

Altruism:

Altruism is where a person considers the consequences in terms of benefiting others involved and sacrificing their own self-interest. (Smith, 2003 - 2010)

In this case the following stakeholders must be considered:

Molly:

Th...

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...p://www.jcu.edu/philosophy/Gensler/exercise.htm

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Holsinger, K. (2009, November 27). Consequentialist vs. non-consequentialist theories of ethics. Retrieved July 15, 2010, from http://darwin.eeb.uconn.edu/eeb310/lecture-notes/value-ethics/node3.html

Kay, C. D. (1997, January 20). Varieties of Egoism. Retrieved July 15, 2010, from http://webs.wofford.edu/kaycd/ethics/egoism.htm

Smith, S. (2003 - 2010). What is Altruism. Retrieved July 15, 2010, from WiseGeek.com: http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-altruism.htm

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