Ethical thinking

Jules Ciotta

In economically slow times, organizations need to be careful not to compromise integrity and values. It is easier to accept taking a loss than ethical routes when there can be gain. Most often there is loss in the long term.  Most decisions have ethical implications. The right thing to do oftentimes isn't completely clear. 

To do the right thing begins with thinking rightly. To think ethically means to steer your thoughts toward compliance with the rules, contributions you can make and harmful consequences to avoid. 

Here are steps to help in ethical thinking:

• Give consideration to the well-being of the others involved.
• Be objective in your thinking.
• Consider the long-term consequences of your thinking and action.
• Okay moral rules.  Ask "what sort of person would do such a thing?"
• Respect others' customs without losing sight of your own ethics.

Jules Ciotta is president of Motivation Communications Associates. He can be reached at (770) 457-4100 or julesciotta@comcast.net.