What is the last major component of ethical decision making?

The last major component of ethical decision making is ethical judgment. This stage involves evaluating the options available and making a decision based on the ethical reasoning developed in the previous steps of the decision-making process. Ethical judgment encompasses the ability to discern what is right or wrong in a given situation, taking into account the ethical principles and values that one has identified throughout the process.

At this stage, individuals apply their understanding of ethical standards, consider the consequences of their choices, and ultimately come to a conclusion about how to act. It reflects the culmination of ethical reasoning, including the weighting of various ethical theories, context, and potential impacts on stakeholders. Therefore, ethical judgment is crucial as it translates ethical principles into actionable decisions, guiding behavior in a manner consistent with one’s values and ethical commitments.