Thinking Hard When It’s Hardest: Lessons in Ethical Decision-Making

In our critical thinking professional development class, I learned that being ethical is not just about knowing right from wrong—it’s about thinking critically, especially in difficult situations. Ethical decisions require effort, and often our biases influence us more than we realize.

We discussed how being a “cognitive miser” can actually help. By simplifying small daily decisions—like what to wear to school—we save mental energy for more complex ethical choices. Reducing decision fatigue allows us to think more clearly when it truly matters.

Real-life cases deepened my understanding. The Masaba Photography campaign challenged us to question our assumptions and emotional reactions. The case of “hyena men” in Malawi pushed us to think about cultural practices and universal ethics. Our favorite discussion, the Trolley problem, revealed how biases shape moral decisions.

As an adult, this class will help me make more rational and thoughtful choices in professional and personal situations. I now understand that being ethical means slowing down, questioning my biases, and choosing reason over impulse.