Value Systems And Ethics

A value system provides criteria for distinguishing right from wrong. People apply their value systems when they make ethical choices. If everyone shared and abide by the same set of values, no one would act unethically. However, people vary widely in their approaches toward right and wrong.

Opportunists: Opportunists ask, "What's in it for me?" They focus their choices on two considerations - fear of punishment and anticipation of rewards. They do not have any strong values. They will do anything they can get by with to better their condition. They will even break the law if there is little chance, they will get caught.

Altruists: Altruists ask, "Which decision will benefit others?" They value doing things for those around them. They feel good about themselves when they are helping people. If a decision is morally right but may harm others, they will refrain from it.

Formalists: Formalists ask, "If I make this choice, will I hurt anyone?" They consider something unethical only when it infringes on other people's basic rights to life, liberty, property and the pursuit of happiness.

Absolutists: Absolutists ask, "What choice would God want me to make?" Their ethics are an extension of their deep religious beliefs. They consider God's will (as they understand it) to be the absolute standard on which all decisions should be base