Scribd
Upload
6 views2 pages

Ethics

The document outlines four types of moral dilemmas: ontological, self-imposed, world-imposed, and prohibition dilemmas, each illustrated with examples. An ontological dilemma involves conflicting moral principles, while a self-imposed dilemma arises from past commitments. World-imposed dilemmas are driven by external circumstances, and prohibition dilemmas occur when all choices violate moral rules, emphasizing the importance of ethical decision-making in challenging situations.

Uploaded by

generoseventura28
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
6 views2 pages

Ethics

The document outlines four types of moral dilemmas: ontological, self-imposed, world-imposed, and prohibition dilemmas, each illustrated with examples. An ontological dilemma involves conflicting moral principles, while a self-imposed dilemma arises from past commitments. World-imposed dilemmas are driven by external circumstances, and prohibition dilemmas occur when all choices violate moral rules, emphasizing the importance of ethical decision-making in challenging situations.

Uploaded by

generoseventura28
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 2

VENTURA, MARIA GENEROSE S.

DATE: FEBRUARY 10, 2025

BSSW 2B

ETHICS

9:30-12:00 Monday

3. What are the different types of moral dilemma? Give examples of each and cite your stand.

• Ontological Moral Dilemma

An ontological moral dilemma happens when two important moral principles clash, and choosing one
means going against the other. Take the case of a journalist who uncovers corruption in the
government. They have a duty to expose the truth, but the information was given to them in confidence.
If they report it, they risk betraying their source’s trust. If they stay silent, they allow corruption to
continue. In this case, doing what’s best for the public should be the priority. While keeping a promise is
important, exposing wrongdoing can lead to justice. The journalist could try to find a way to share the
truth while protecting their source, such as reporting anonymously or seeking permission to reveal the
information.

• Self-Imposed Moral Dilemma

A self-imposed moral dilemma happens when someone’s past choices or commitments put them in a
tough spot. Imagine a student who promises to help a friend study but later realizes they also need time
to prepare for their own exam. If they help, they might not have enough time to study for themselves. If
they don’t, they break their promise. In this case, balancing both responsibilities is key. The student can
still help their friend, but maybe for a shorter time or by giving study tips, so they don’t completely
neglect their own preparation. This way, they stay true to their word without sacrificing their own
success.

• World-Imposed Moral Dilemma

A world-imposed moral dilemma happens when external events force someone into a no-win situation.
For example, a firefighter arrives at a burning house and finds two people trapped inside but can only
save one. No matter what they do, they will have to leave someone behind. In moments like this, the
firefighter has to make a quick decision based on who has the best chance of survival or who is in the
most danger. Even though the situation is tragic, the best choice is to act fast and do what will save the
most lives.

• Prohibition Moral Dilemma

A prohibition moral dilemma occurs when every possible choice leads to breaking a moral rule. For
example, a soldier is ordered to execute a surrendered enemy. If they follow the order, they uphold
discipline but commit an unethical act. If they refuse, they disobey a direct command, which could have
consequences. In this case, the right thing to do is to stand by moral values and refuse to kill someone
who has surrendered. Even in tough situations, choosing what’s right over blindly following orders is
important.

You might also like