What is the first major component of ethical decision making?

The first major component of ethical decision making is ethical commitment (or motivation). This component involves the individual's intrinsic drive to act in accordance with moral principles and values. Ethical commitment lays the foundation for ethical behavior, as it reflects a person's dedication to doing what is right, even in challenging situations.

When a person is ethically committed, they prioritize ethical considerations over personal gain, convenience, or peer pressure. This motivation serves as the compass guiding decision making, influencing how individuals assess their options and the potential consequences of their actions. Without this commitment, the subsequent steps in the ethical decision-making process may falter, as there would be little impetus to consider ethical implications or seek out the best course of action.

In contrast, while ethical competence skills, ethical consciousness, and ethical networking all play important roles in the decision-making process, they typically come into play after an individual has established a strong ethical commitment. Ethical competence skills refer to the knowledge and capabilities one has to navigate ethical dilemmas, whereas ethical consciousness involves awareness of the ethical dimensions of one's actions. Ethical networking encompasses connecting with others to share insights and support ethical practices, but without the initial motivation to engage in ethical behavior, these elements alone cannot ensure sound decision-making.