Choose 1 Scenario from the WWYD? section – Answer the question completely using the five-step process. The 5-step Ethical Decision-Making Process is explained fully in your book on Pages 24 – 27. This process is to be used to respond to your WWYD? Assignments. Points will be deducted if your answers do NOT follow this process to analyze the situation and recommend a course of action.The 5-Step Ethical Decision-Making  Process is

defined as follows:

Step 1: Identify the Problem
In this step, the ethical problem or dilemma should be clearly defined. It is important to understand the key factors and parties involved in the situation. By identifying the problem, one can begin to analyze the ethical issues at hand.

Step 2: Gather Information
The second step involves gathering all relevant information related to the problem. This includes facts, data, and any other relevant details that can help in understanding the situation better. It is crucial to have accurate and comprehensive information to make an informed decision.

Step 3: Evaluate the Alternatives
Once the problem is identified and information is gathered, it is time to consider the different alternatives or courses of action that are available. Each alternative should be thoroughly assessed based on its ethical implications, potential consequences, and long-term impact. It is important to consider the values, principles, and ethical theories that apply to the situation.

Step 4: Make a Decision
After evaluating the alternatives, a decision must be made regarding the best course of action. This decision should be based on the ethical considerations and analysis conducted in the previous steps. It is important to choose the option that aligns with ethical principles and promotes the greatest overall good.

Step 5: Act and Reflect
The final step involves implementing the chosen course of action and reflecting on the outcome. It is important to monitor and assess the consequences of the decision made. If the outcome is not as expected or ethical dilemmas arise, further adjustments may need to be made.

In order to answer the question completely using the five-step ethical decision-making process, let us consider the following scenario from the WWYD? section:

Scenario: You are a researcher conducting a study on the effects of a new drug. The drug shows promising results in the initial trials and could potentially save lives. However, during the later stages of the study, some unexpected side effects emerge that could harm the participants. The pharmaceutical company sponsoring the study emphasizes the importance of completing the research and obtaining favorable results to gain regulatory approval. What should you do?

Step 1: Identify the Problem
The ethical problem in this scenario is the presence of unexpected side effects in the drug study that could harm the participants. The conflict arises from the potential harm versus the potential benefits of the drug.

Step 2: Gather Information
In this step, it is important to gather all relevant information regarding the drug, its side effects, the potential benefits, and the ethical guidelines and regulations for conducting research. This includes consulting medical literature, speaking with experts, and reviewing any applicable ethical codes or regulations.

Step 3: Evaluate the Alternatives
Next, we need to consider the different alternatives in this situation. One option could be to halt the study and inform the participants of the potential risks. Another option could be to continue the study but implement stricter monitoring and precautions to minimize harm. It is important to evaluate each alternative based on ethical principles, potential consequences, and the well-being of the participants.

Step 4: Make a Decision
Based on the evaluation of alternatives, a decision needs to be made. In this case, it may be ethically justifiable to halt the study and inform the participants about the potential risks. This decision prioritizes the well-being and autonomy of the participants over the potential benefits of the drug.

Step 5: Act and Reflect
After making the decision to halt the study, it is important to act on it by informing the participants and taking necessary steps to ensure their safety. Additionally, it is essential to reflect on the decision-making process and its outcomes. This reflection can help in improving future ethical decision-making and research practices.

In conclusion, the five-step ethical decision-making process is a valuable framework for addressing ethical dilemmas in various scenarios. By systematically identifying the problem, gathering information, evaluating alternatives, making a decision, and reflecting on the outcomes, individuals can make informed and ethical choices in their professional and personal lives. In the given scenario, the decision to prioritize participant safety by halting the study and informing the participants about the potential risks aligns with ethical principles.