You have been working for the XYZ Computer Corporation as an entry-level software engineering since you graduated from college last May. You have done very well so far; you are respected by management, well liked by your fellow employees , and have been assigned to a team of engineers that has consistently worked on the most critical and valued projects and contracts that XYZ Corp. has secured. Their most recent contract is for a U.S. defense project involving the Missile Defense System, and again, you have been assigned to the team that will develop software for this project. However, you are staunchly opposed to the project’s objectives, so you ask to be resigned. Your supervisor and coworkers, as well as upper management, are disappointed to learn of your strong feelings about this project. You are asked to reconsider your views, and you are promised a bonus and a substantial pay increase if you agree to work on project during the next year. You also discover from a colleague that refusing to work on this project would greatly diminish your career advancement at XYZ and may even make you child in about 3 months and you recently purchased a home. What would you do? Describe the process of ethical deliberation that you could undertake in trying to resolve this dilemma.
File bankruptcy right away!
When faced with a ethical dilemma like this, it's important to take a step back and engage in a process of ethical deliberation. Here is a suggested process for resolving this dilemma:
1. Identify the ethical issue: Clearly identify the conflict between your personal opposition to the project's objectives and the potential negative consequences for your career and personal life.
2. Gather information: Seek out as much information as possible about both sides of the issue. Learn more about the project, its objectives, and its potential impact. Additionally, understand the reasons behind your opposition to the project and evaluate whether your stance is based on accurate information.
3. Determine stakeholders: Identify all the parties who could be affected by your decision, including yourself, your colleagues, your supervisor, and XYZ Corp. Analyze their interests, concerns, and potential consequences.
4. Evaluate alternatives: Consider the available options. Is there a way to voice your concerns internally or to be involved in a different aspect of the project that aligns more closely with your values? Research alternative career opportunities that may be available outside XYZ Corp.
5. Assess potential consequences: Examine the potential short-term and long-term consequences of each option. Consider the impact on your career, your personal life, your relationships with colleagues, and your own sense of integrity.
6. Reflect on ethical principles: Reflect on ethical principles such as integrity, honesty, fairness, and the greater good. Consider how each option aligns with these principles and which option would lead to the most ethically justifiable outcome.
7. Seek guidance and input: Discuss the dilemma with trusted individuals, both within and outside the company. Seek advice from mentors, professional organizations, or industry experts to gain different perspectives on the situation.
8. Make a decision: After weighing all the factors, make a decision that feels ethically justified and aligned with your values and principles. Consider the potential short-term sacrifices against the long-term implications of your choice.
9. Communicate your decision: Clearly communicate your decision to all parties involved, articulating your reasons and expressing respect for differing viewpoints. Be prepared to negotiate and find common ground, if possible.
It is important to remember that ethical dilemmas can be complex, and there may not always be a perfect solution. Each individual's values and priorities are different, so the resolution of this dilemma will ultimately depend on the person's own ethical framework and assessment of their priorities.