Question: A first step in addressing ethical dilemmas is to identify the problem. This is particularly necessary for a stakeholder approach, because the problems depend on who the stakeholders are and what their stakes entail. Before specific ethical principles are discussed, let's begin by considering important decision criteria for ethical reasoning. How would you apply the criteria to Louise Simms' situation? Twelve questions, developed by Laura Nash,8 to ask yourself during the decision-making period are:
1. Have you defined the problem accurately?
2. How would you define the problem if you stood on the other side of the fence?
3. How did the situation occur?
4. To whom and to what do you give your loyalty as a person and as a member of the corporation?
5. What is your intention in making this decision?
6. How does this intention compare with the probable results?
7. Who could your decision injure?
8. Can you discuss the problem with the affected parties before you make your decision?
9. Are you confident that your decision will be valid over a long period?
10. Could you disclose, without qualm, your decision?
11. What is the symbolic potential of your action if understood? If misunderstood?
12. Under what conditions would you allow exceptions?