Ethical Dilemma

Ethical Dilemma occur when we have to decide between two opposing moral principles. Learning them is about using moral reasoning through models such as deontology (duty-based ethics), utilitarianism (consequence-based ethics), and virtue ethics (character-based ethics). Deontology (Kant) suggests following moral rules regardless of consequences, while Utilitarianism (Bentham, Mill) prioritizes overall happiness.

Recently, I encountered a small but meaningful ethical challenge with my 3-year-old son. He wanted to take an extra toy from a friend’s house, believing it was fine since his friend had many. This moment became an opportunity to apply virtue ethics—teaching him honesty and fairness rather than just enforcing rules. Instead of simply saying “no,” I guided him to understand the importance of respecting others’ belongings. This experience reinforced that ethical learning starts early, shaping character through real-life situations.

Ethical dilemmas rarely have clear answers and require empathy, wisdom, and moral reasoning. They test our principles, refine judgment, and shape our values. Morality is often a spectrum of carefully weighed decisions defining who we are. It is at the end our decision of what choices we make.