Question

Describe and demonstrate some of the similarities and differences between principles and values. Why are principles and values important normative considerations in ethical decision making?

Answer 1

In general, Principles are specific and pervasive boundaries for behavior that should not be violated. They often become the basis for rules and are used to develop values and standards. They play a big role in preventing the firm from bending rules. In John Rawls opinion, principles can be accepted from everyone; regardless of the social position. Principles are widely accepted and are valued across cultures.

Values are enduring beliefs and ideals that are socially enforced. They can be used to formulate normative definitions of ethical and unethical; and to develop norms. Additionally, they are subjective and related to choice. Different from principles, values differ across cultures and firms.

Together, they are used as a basis to create core values to provide durable beliefs about fair conduct. Those core values create a framework for the behavior of employees of an organization and make it easier for them to deal with moral issues.

In this context, normative approaches can point out how an ethical issue should be approached. The guidance of principles and values in an organization is very important. It enables the organization to have an ideal standard on which employees can orientate. Without this it would be hard to make fair decisions in case of a violation of the rules and it would be impossible to have equal codes of behavior in a (big) firm.