I need to review normative ethical theory and another theory and get an understanding of the relevance of ethical theories to current organizational situations
First of all, it seems to me you need to define your terms. Links in here may help.
http://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1GGGE_enUS379US379&aq=2&oq=normative+ethical+theory&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&q=normative+ethical+theory+define
Once you have clear definitions, the rest should come more easily.
I am not so certain, Writeacher. I took a course on this many years ago, it fuzzed my thinking so much I had to go back to Sunday School and relearn Right from Wrong. Often, we study to such a degree and depth, that we forget that which we inherently know. At least that is my experience.
Rationalization of wrong to be right, and right to be wrong is an old vice, recently taken on as an academic field in itself does let us speak from both hands, and both sides of our mouth.
And we claim the younger generation is "confused". Oh well.
To review normative ethical theory and another theory, you can follow these steps:
1. Identify the Normative Ethical Theory: Start by choosing a normative ethical theory to review. Normative ethical theories prescribe how people ought to behave and form the basis of ethical decision-making.
Examples of normative ethical theories include:
- Utilitarianism: This theory focuses on maximizing overall happiness or utility.
- Deontology: It emphasizes following universal moral rules or duties.
- Virtue Ethics: This approach emphasizes the development of moral character and virtues.
Choose one of these theories as your primary focus.
2. Study the Chosen Normative Ethical Theory: Look for reputable books, articles, or resources that explain the chosen normative ethical theory in detail. Consider the original works by notable philosophers who have contributed to the theory, such as Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill for utilitarianism, or Immanuel Kant for deontology. Thoroughly read and take notes to understand the principles, arguments, and key concepts behind the theory.
3. Choose Another Ethical Theory: In addition to studying the normative ethical theory, select another theory that you find relevant or interesting. This theory doesn't necessarily have to be a normative theory; it can be a descriptive theory that describes how people actually behave or make ethical decisions. For example, you could choose ethical relativism or ethical egoism.
4. Study the Chosen Secondary Theory: Research and learn about the secondary theory using the same approach as for the normative ethical theory. Understand its principles, key arguments, and implications.
5. Relate Ethical Theories to Organizational Situations: Now that you have a strong understanding of both ethical theories, consider how they are relevant to current organizational situations.
- Analyze ethical dilemmas: Identify real-world scenarios or case studies that involve ethical questions and evaluate them using the principles from your chosen ethical theories.
- Consider decision-making frameworks: Explore how the ethical theories you've studied can guide individuals and organizations in making ethical decisions. For example, how would utilitarianism or deontology inform reasoning in situations involving employee well-being, resource allocation, or environmental impact?
- Examine ethical cultures: Investigate how different ethical theories may shape the ethical culture of an organization, and how they align or conflict with organizational values and goals.
By studying and understanding normative ethical theory and another theory of your choice, you will be better equipped to analyze and assess the relevance of ethical theories in current organizational situations.