Ethics in choices

Every day we make decisions: some small and quick, others complex and with an impact that goes far beyond our lives.
When we evaluate a choice, we often focus on what is effective, convenient, or strategic.
But there is one question that, if ignored, can completely change the meaning of our actions: “Is this the right thing to do?”
This is the ethical dimension of decision-making.
An element that is as fundamental as it is often underestimated.
In this article, we explore why ethics is an integral part of the decision-making process and how it can guide us to make more informed, responsible, and sustainable choices.

What is ethics in decision making really?
When we talk about “ethics,” we’re not just referring to following rules or regulations.
Ethics is about:
• the values ​​that guide our choices
• the impact of our actions on others
• how to reconcile personal, collective and professional interests
• the sense of responsibility towards consequences that are often not immediately visible
In other words, ethics doesn't tell us what to decide, but how to decide.

Why ethics are so important today
We live in a context where:
• information circulates quickly
• reputation is fragile
• the consequences of choices are easily amplified
Ethics improves:
• trust
• credibility
• cohesion
• the quality of relationships
• the sustainability of decisions over time
And in personal life it creates a sense of alignment between actions and values, which is essential for psychological well-being.

Three major ethical approaches that influence decisions
A. Ethics of duty (deontology)
Key question: “Am I respecting fundamental principles and rights?”
Examples:
• tell the truth even when it is difficult
• respect commitments and responsibilities
• act with consistency and integrity
It is ethics that sets clear limits: there are things that "are not done", even if they seem convenient.

B. Ethics of consequences (utilitarianism)
Key question: “Which decision generates the greatest overall benefit?”
Examples:
• choose the option that helps the most people
• evaluate the costs/benefits for all
• optimize resources for the collective good
What counts here is the final impact, not the principle itself.

C. Virtue ethics
Key question: “Does this choice reflect the person I want to be?”
Examples:
• act with courage, fairness, prudence
• make character-building decisions
• choose the right path even when it is not the easiest
• helping others even when it seems to come at a cost
It is an approach centered on identity and intentions.

Why it's difficult to make ethical decisions
Making ethical decisions is often difficult because it requires:
1. Time and reflection
Ethics doesn't happen automatically: it requires careful consideration.
2. Conflict between values
Example: equity vs. efficiency.
3. External pressures
Deadlines, goals, other people's expectations.
4. Cognitive biases
Our brain tends to see what confirms our choices, not what challenges them.
5. Difficulty seeing long-term impact
The ethical consequences are not always immediate or visible.

How to integrate ethics into the decision-making process
Here are some helpful key questions:

• Who benefits and who harms this decision?
  Consider everyone, not just ourselves.
• What value guides this choice?
  Transparency, fairness, responsibility, respect.
  
• Would I be comfortable if this decision became public?
  A powerful test for assessing moral correctness.
  
• Am I respecting fundamental principles and rights?
  
• Is this decision consistent with the person or organization we want to be?
  
• Are there more ethical alternatives that I haven't considered?