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How to Write an Ethics Paper: Guide & Ethical Essay Examples

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What Is an Ethics Essay?

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Imagine living in a world where people only lie, and honesty is becoming a scarce commodity. Indeed, modern society is facing this reality as truth and deception can no longer be separated. Technology has facilitated a quick transmission of voluminous information, whereas it's hard separating facts from opinions.

The moral implications of dishonesty are far-reaching as they undermine trust, integrity, and other foundations of society, damaging personal and professional relationships.

Honesty is an essential component of professional integrity. In many fields, trust and credibility are crucial for professionals to build relationships and success. For example, a doctor who is dishonest about a potential side effect of a medication is not only acting unethically but also putting the health and well-being of their patients at risk. Similarly, a dishonest businessman could achieve short-term benefits but will lose their client’s trust.

In conclusion, the implications of dishonesty and the importance of honesty in our lives cannot be overstated. Honesty builds solid relationships, effective communication, and better decision-making. This essay has explored how dishonesty impacts people and that we should value honesty. We hope this essay will help readers assess their behavior and work towards being more honest in their lives.

How to Write an Ethics Paper or Essay With Tips and Examples

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An ethics essay is one type of essays that students write to present their ideas about what is good or bad, right or wrong, white or black, and approved or prohibited in terms of various theories, approaches, techniques, practices, actions, behaviors, responsibilities, morals, results, obligations, virtues, and others, developing essential writing skills. When writing an ethics paper, students should understand that such an essay differs from other assignments, and it focuses on elaborating on issues with ethical or moral implications in philosophy. Basically, this elaboration entails writers arguing for a stand on an ethical or moral issue. Moreover, when writing such a composition, students should follow a basic essay structure: introduction-body-conclusion. In each of these sections, learners should capture critical elements, such as a thesis statement in the introduction part, topic sentences in body paragraphs, and a thesis restatement in the conclusion part. Hence, students need to learn how to write a good ethics paper or essay to demonstrate their knowledge of philosophy by using ethical and moral sides of an issue.

General Aspects

Academic writing is a broad discipline that exposes students to critical skills, including interpretation, explanation, reflection, and analysis of many essay topics. Basically, essay writing is one of the academic exercises that enable students to build these skills. One of the essay types that students write is a research paper on ethics. In this case, writers begin a research paper about ethics by introducing an assigned topic, explaining its significance, and presenting a clear thesis statement. When writing ethics essays in philosophy, students address issues related to morality, such as aspects of right and wrong or good and bad. Then, such concepts of ethics and morals underlie the importance of the right behaviors. In various settings, such as workplaces, humans establish codes of ethics and conduct to guide behavior. Therefore, when writing such compositions, a student’s focus is on how humans embrace or disregard good morals in society.

What Is an Ethics Paper and Its Purpose

According to its definition, an ethics paper is a written work that examines moral issues, ethical dilemmas, and contradicting cases, exploring questions of right and wrong. The primary purpose of writing an ethics paper is to examine and analyze various ethical theories, apply them to real-life situations, and present well-reasoned arguments to support a specific viewpoint on an author (Baron et al., 2014). Through this process, such a work aims to stimulate critical thinking and ethical reasoning analysis, helping people to understand different moral perspectives and refine their own beliefs. By examining the lens of ethical principles and their applications, such essays contribute to academic discourse, guide professional practices, and enhance moral awareness. At the individual level, people learn how to reflect on their values and the implications of their choices (Gorichanaz, 2023). Besides, an ethics paper typically includes an introduction with a thesis statement, a literature review, arguments and counterarguments, an analysis, and a conclusion. In terms of pages and words, the length of such a work can vary based on specific course requirements, topic’s complexity, guidelines provided by the instructor or institution, and academic levels:

High School

Pages: 2-5 pages
Words: 500-1250 words

College (Undergraduate)

Pages: 5-10 pages
Words: 1250-2500 words

University (Advanced Undergraduate or Honors)

Pages: 10-15 pages
Words: 2500-3750 words

Master’s

Pages: 20-30 pages
Words: 5000-7500 words
Pages: 30-50 pages or more
Words: 7500-12,500+ words

1. Defining Features or Characteristics

Like all other types of papers , an ethics essay has unique features that define it as an academic text. Writing ethics involves explaining and evaluating moral principles, applying them to specific situations, and providing reasoned arguments supported by evidence (Stichler, 2014). To some extent, these features influence an essay structure of a paper. Basically, the first feature is proof of the importance of a topic. In this case, students show this importance by constructing essay topics as challenging issues facing society, hence talking about it. Then, the second characteristic is a thesis statement, and learners in philosophy formulate them to shed light on a topic. Further on, the third feature is arguments that support a thesis, and the fourth characteristic is possible counterarguments. Moreover, the fifth feature is a rebuttal, where writers insist on the strengths of their arguments while acknowledging possible or real counterarguments. In turn, the sixth characteristic is a sum-up of an ethics paper. Here, authors emphasize a thesis statement by justifying arguments in their favor that they provide in a written document. Therefore, to write a professional ethics paper, people clearly define a specific moral issue, use relevant ethical theories, provide reasoned arguments, and cite scholarly sources (Stichler, 2014). In turn, an argument can be considered as an ethical argument if this statement meets certain criteria that distinguish it from other types of claims. Here are key characteristics that make an argument an ethical argument:

Moral Principles: The argument is based on moral principles or ethical theories and involves considerations of right and wrong, justice, fairness, duty, virtue, or other good/bad concepts.
Normative Statements: Moral claims include normative statements, which prescribe how people ought to act rather than merely describing how they do act.
Reasoned Justifications: The statement provides reasoned justifications for its claims, relying on logical reasoning rather than emotional appeals or mere opinions.
Universalizability: Philosophical approaches often aim for universalizability, meaning the principles applied in the argument should be applicable to all similar situations, not just the specific case being discussed.
Consideration of Stakeholders: The argument takes into account the impact on all relevant stakeholders, considering how the actions or policies will affect different individuals or groups.
Ethical Theories and Principles: The claim often references established moral theories and principles, such as utilitarianism (maximizing overall happiness), deontology (duty-based ethics), virtue ethics (focusing on character), or rights-based approaches.
Consistency: Strong arguments strive for consistency, ensuring moral principles applied are coherent and do not lead to contradictory conclusions in different situations.
Moral Language: The sentence uses moral language, such as “right,” “wrong,” “ought,” “duty,” “rights,” “justice,” “virtue,” and others, to articulate its points.
Impartiality: It often requires impartiality, and key decisions should not be biased by personal interests but should consider the perspective of others affected.
Ethical Reflection: The claim involves ethical reflection, encouraging critical examination of moral beliefs and assumptions to arrive at a well-reasoned conclusion.

2. How Does an Ethics Paper Differ From Other Essays

There are many types of essays that students write under a discipline of philosophy. Basically, each essay type has unique characteristics, and they distinguish it from other papers. For an ethics essay, these characteristics include addressing a moral issue, using an ethical lens to make arguments regarding a controversial matter, or explaining a dilemma (Jansen & Ellerton, 2018). Ideally, this type of paper focuses on elaborating on ethics and morality. In contrast, a narrative essay focuses on telling the writer’s story, while an informative essay focuses on educating the audience concerning a topic. Moreover, while some papers, like narrative or college application essays, utilize the first-person language, an ethics essay takes a formal approach to a third-person language. As a result, a good ethics paper clearly defines a particular moral problem, applies relevant ethical theories, presents balanced arguments, and provides well-reasoned conclusions.

3. How to Know if Students Need to Write an Ethics Paper or Essay

Generally, before students write some types of papers, they first consider the department or tutor’s requirements. Basically, these requirements can provide direct instructions, including a research topic, an essay outline, or a grading rubric (Baron et al., 2014). In this case, the latter helps students to understand the basic expectations of educational departments or tutors. Therefore, when students do not get direct instructions about their ethics topics, they can always know what type of essay they need to write by reading grading essay rubric requirements. For ethics papers, such prompts require students to take a stand on an issue of profound ethical or moral implications, such as fraud. In turn, key elements that tell students that they need to write an ethics paper or essay include providing an ethical argument, elaborating on a moral dilemma, or expounding on ethical and legal implications.

4. How Do Students Know if They Need to Write an Ethics Paper by Looking at an Essay Topic

Students consider the instructions given by departments or tutors when writing essays. Basically, these instructions provide directions on essay topics, and students should address them when writing their papers. When writing an ethics paper, students can know that they need to write this type of essay by looking at the department or tutor’s topic. Moreover, this ethics topic may require people to provide valid arguments concerning a matter, elaborate on a moral dilemma, or state whether an issue is ethical or legal (Deaton, 2019). In turn, a central message of a topic should require students to address an issue via a philosophical lens. As a result, to write an ethical dilemma paper, people describe a specific moral problem, discuss conflicting values, analyze possible solutions using philosophical theories, and conclude with a reasoned decision.

5. The Meaning of an Ethical Argument, Ethical Dilemma, and Ethical v. Legal Implications

Key elements that define an ethics paper include ethical arguments, moral dilemmas, and ethical and legal implications. For example, the term “ethical arguments” refers to a concept of taking a stand on an issue with moral implications and defending it (Baines, 2009). In this case, writers make relevant arguments to support their perspectives on an issue raising moral questions, such as fraud. Then, the term “ethical dilemma” refers to a situation where individuals find themselves whenever they face an issue raising ethical or moral questions, such as bribery (Baines, 2009). Moreover, authors are torn between two options, with one option having severe moral implications. In turn, the term “ethical versus legal implications” refers to a situation where a writer has to decide whether an issue, such as bribery, needs ethical or legal redress (Baines, 2009). Hence, ethical dilemmas mean the complexity of making moral decisions and require a balance between conflicting values and principles, while some examples of them are:

Moral Dilemma	Explanation
Lying to Protect Someone	Should you lie to protect a friend’s secret, knowing that telling the truth could harm their reputation?
Stealing to Feed a Family	Should you participate in a war you believe is unjust to fulfill your civic duty or refuse and face legal consequences?
Euthanasia	Should you assist in the euthanasia of a terminally ill loved one who is suffering despite it being illegal?
Reporting a Friend’s Crime	Should you report your friend’s illegal activities to the authorities, risking your friendship but upholding the law?
Breaking a Promise to Help Another	Should you break a promise to a friend to help another friend in a more urgent situation?
Employee Whistleblowing	Should you expose your company’s unethical practices, risking your job but potentially preventing harm to others?
Trolley Problem	Should you pull a lever toward you to divert a runaway trolley, killing one person but saving five others?
Medical Resource Allocation	Should you allocate limited medical resources to a young patient with a better prognosis than an older patient?
Conscription vs. Conscientious Objection	Should you participate in a war you believe is unjust to fulfill your civic duty or refuse and face legal consequences?
Privacy vs. Security	Should you support increased surveillance to enhance public safety, even if it infringes on individual privacy rights?

Examples of Ethical & Moral Themes

Ethical Dimensions of Artificial Intelligence: Concerns and Potential Solutions
The Ethics and Legality of Child Adoption
The Pros and Cons of Taking Vitamin Supplements
Plastic Surgery and the Pursuit of Beauty
Human Cloning: Is It Ethical?
Death Penalty: Key Pros and Cons
Abortion as an Intervention Against Teen Pregnancy
Is Voting a Moral or Legal Duty?
Does Driving an Electric Car Indicate Responsible Citizenship?
Social Media Use and Privacy
Should Schools Enact Anti-Bullying Policies?
Does Social Media Use Enhance or Undermine Socialization?
Combating Music Piracy: Should Governments Get Involved?
Organic Foods vs. Processed Foods: Which Is Healthier?
Global Warming and the Extinction of Animal and Plant Species
Should Politics and Church Separate?
Is It Justified to Bribe to Avoid a Legal Penalty?
Should Nurses Be Allowed to Assist Terminally Ill Patients to End Their Lives?
Corporate Fraud: Who Should Take Responsibility?
Is Corporate Social Responsibility a Humanitarian or Commercial Concept?

Ethics Paper Format

Section	Description
Title Page	Begin your paper by presenting the paper’s title, author’s name, course, instructor’s name, and date.
Abstract	Provide a concise summary of the paper’s content, including the main moral issue, theories, key arguments, and final remarks.
Introduction	Start an ethics paper with a compelling introduction that outlines a specific ethical issue, provide background information, and present a clear thesis statement concerning a moral problem under analysis.
Background	Write a relevant context and detailed background information about a particular moral problem being discussed.
Literature Review	Summarize existing research and ethical theories relevant to an assigned topic, highlighting different viewpoints.
Arguments	Include various arguments related to a corresponding moral issue, using relevant theories to support each perspective.
Counterarguments	Discuss potential counterarguments to the main thesis and address them using ethical reasoning.
Analysis	Critically examine arguments and counterarguments, applying theoretical principles to evaluate them.
Conclusion	End by summarizing the main points, restate the central thesis in light of the discussion, and provide final thoughts or recommendations.
References	List all the sources used for writing an ethical analysis and format them according to a specific citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Harvard, Chicago/Turabian, etc.).
Appendices	Include any additional material, such as surveys, interview transcripts, charts, tables, or detailed explanations, if applicable.

Note: This ethics paper format is general, while some sections can be added, deleted, or combined with each other depending on the scope, requirements, instructions, and purpose.

Ethics Paper Outline

Like any other essay, an ethics paper follows a specific structure that underscores its outline. Basically, this structure comprises three sections: introduction, body, and conclusion. When writing these sections, students must ensure they address all the essential defining features stated previously in their ethics essays or papers. When doing so, writers should confirm that the introduction and conclusion sections take 10 percent of the total word count of an ethics paper or essay, while the body, which is the main text, should be 80 percent. Hence, an essay outline of an ethics paper should look as below:

I. Introduction

A. Hook sentence. B. Background information on an ethical dilemma. C. Writer’s claim – A thesis statement covering a moral part.

II. Body Paragraphs

A. Argument

state a position of an argument;
support this position with evidence;
explain how this evidence is right toward this argument and evidence;
conclude why this argument is valid.

B. Counterargument

provide a counterargument to a position in the first body paragraph;
include evidence that supports this counterargument, being opposite to an argument in the previous section;
explain how this counterargument and evidence in this paragraph are correct by using an opposite perspective;
finish why this counterargument is valid for this case.

C. Rebuttal

define the weaknesses of a counterargument;
cover credible evidence that supports such weaknesses;
write how these weaknesses make a counterargument irrelevant;
end with a statement that explains why a counterargument is not valid compared to an argument.

III. Conclusion

A. Restate a thesis. B. Sum up on the argument, counterargument, and rebuttal. C. State a paper’s final claim with a moral lesson.

Explaining Each Section of an Ethics Paper Structure

When writing the introduction section, authors of an ethics paper should be brief and concise. Here, students should inform the audience about the purpose of writing by accurately expounding on an ethical issue they intend to address (Baron et al., 2014). In essence, this aspect means highlighting their stand concerning an issue. Moreover, formulating a thesis statement helps to accomplish this goal. In this case, writers frame their minds and structure their compositions via the use of arguments, and they defend their stand on an issue of profound moral implications. Notably, when writing the introduction part, which signals the start of an ethical paper or essay, learners should begin with a hook to grab the readers’ attention. This sentence can be a popular misconception or a question that writers intend to answer when writing an ethics paper or essay. In turn, the next examples of starters can help writers to begin their ethical analysis and set the stage for a thorough exploration of the topic:

Moral implications of [issue] are complex and involve different considerations, such as … .
One of the most pressing ethical questions surrounding [issue] is whether … .
From the perspective of deontological ethics, [action] can be viewed as … .
A utilitarian approach to [issue] would suggest … .
The principle of autonomy plays a crucial role in the debate over [issue], as it emphasizes … .
In considering the ethical dimensions of [issue], it is important to weigh the potential benefits against … .
The controversy over [issue] highlights the tension between [value 1] and [value 2] … .
Philosophical lenses, such as [theory 1], [theory 2], and [theory 3] provide a framework for understanding [issue] by focusing on … .
The debate over [issue] raises significant moral concerns, including … .
Examining [issue] through the lens of [ethical theory] reveals … .

II. Body Section

When writing the body of an ethics paper or essay, students should use a thesis statement as a reference point. In other words, they should use a thesis statement to come up with several ideas or arguments in defense of their stand on an assigned ethical or moral issue identified in the introduction part (Deaton, 2019). Basically, rules of academic writing dictate that students should begin each body paragraph with a topic sentence, whose purpose is to introduce a claim or idea they intend to elaborate on in the section. Then, it is advisable that, when writing the body section, learners should use different paragraphs to separate arguments logically. Moreover, students should follow a sandwich rule when writing every body paragraph of an ethics paper or essay. In turn, such a paragraph structure means providing a claim, supporting it with evidence, explaining its relevance to the paper’s thesis, and ending with a transition sentence to be connected with the next paragraph logically.

The conclusion part is the last section of an ethics paper. In particular, an ethics essay should capture several themes in this section. Firstly, writers should restate a thesis statement. Secondly, they should summarize the main points made in body paragraphs. Further on, this aspect means summarizing the writer’s arguments for their stands toward an issue with moral implications (Baines, 2009). In turn, authors should reiterate the paper’s topic and state why it was essential to address an ethical or moral issue. Besides, students need to avoid providing new information in this section.

Example of an Ethics Paper

Topic – Euthanasia: Is It Ethical?

I. Introduction Sample

Terminal illness is a condition of profound pain and suffering for those affected, including the patients and their families. Today, some scientists support euthanasia, the aspect of assisting terminally ill patients in ending their lives. While health professionals should do everything to help their patients to avoid suffering, assisting them in ending their lives is unethical and immoral.

II. Examples of Body Paragraphs

Life is a sacred thing, and no human being has any justification for ending it, regardless of whose it is. For example, the premise of a debate about euthanasia, which refers to assisted suicide, is the prevalence of terminal illnesses that subject individuals to a life of pain, suffering, and dependence. Without any hope of recovery, some individuals have opted to end their lives with the help of their loved ones or health professionals. While there is every reason to empathize with these individuals’ fate, there is no basis for supporting their desire to end their lives. In turn, the sanctity of life does not allow human beings to end life, no matter the circumstances.

If there seems to be no hope of recovery, ending life is counterproductive in an age of significant scientific and technological advancements. Basically, scientists are working round the clock to find cures for incurable diseases that have proven to be a threat to humanity. For example, today, smallpox is no longer a threat because a cure is found (Persson, 2010). Therefore, the fact that there may be no cure for a disease today does not mean that there will not be a cure tomorrow. Naturally, human beings rely on hope to overcome moments of darkness, such as a terminal illness diagnosis. Nonetheless, it is the effort of the scientific community that has always brought hope to humanity. In this light, there is no ethical or moral justification for euthanasia.

Euthanasia is not only a solution to terminal illness but also a sign of hopelessness and despair. When patients take the root of assisted suicide, it means that they give up on looking for alternatives in dealing with a problem. In this case, the fact that a terminal illness does not have a cure does not imply that it cannot be managed. Moreover, individuals who love a terminally ill person, such as family members and friends, hope to spend more time with them before an inevitable time happens. As such, terminally ill patients should use their families and health professionals to live longer. In essence, this aspect reflects true humanity – standing firm and determining amid of insurmountable odds. On that truth alone, euthanasia is an idea that deserves no thought or attention.

III. Conclusion Sample

There is nothing more devastating than a terminal illness diagnosis. Basically, such news punctures the hope of many individuals, families, and communities. Nonetheless, patients should not lose hope and despair to the point of wanting to end their lives because of being diagnosed with a terminal illness. Because life is sacred and there is always a higher probability of medical breakthroughs in an age of scientific and technological advancement, euthanasia is an unethical and immoral solution to a terminal illness.

Persson, S. (2010). Smallpox, syphilis, and salvation: Medical breakthroughs that changed the world . East Gosford, New South Wales: Exisle Publishing.

Essay writing is an essential academic exercise that enables students to develop writing skills. When writing an ethics paper or essay, students focus on taking a stand on an issue with ethical or moral implications. In this case, writers create a thesis statement that expresses their perspective on a moral issue, which can be an ethical dilemma. In the main text, authors provide arguments that defend their thesis statements. Hence, when writing an ethics paper or essay, students should master the following tips:

Develop the introduction-body-conclusion paper outline.
Introduce an assigned topic briefly and concisely in the introduction section.
Write a strong thesis statement covering a moral problem.
Use separate body paragraphs to introduce and defend arguments.
Ensure to provide a counterargument and a rebuttal.
Restate a central thesis statement in the conclusion section, including a summary of the main points (arguments that defend the paper’s thesis).

Baines, B. K. (2009). Ethical wills: Putting your values on paper . Da Capo Press.

Baron, P., Poxon, B., & Jones, L. (2014). How to write ethics and philosophy essays . PushMe Press.

Deaton, M. (2019). Ethics in a nutshell: The philosopher’s approach to morality in 100 pages . Notaed Press.

Gorichanaz, T. (2023). A compass for what matters: Applying virtue ethics to information behavior. Open Information Science , 7 (1), 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1515/opis-2022-0151

Jansen, M., & Ellerton, P. (2018). How to read an ethics paper. Journal of Medical Ethics , 44 (12), 810–813. https://doi.org/10.1136/medethics-2018-104997

Stichler, J. F. (2014). The ethics of research, writing, and publication. HERD: Health Environments Research & Design Journal , 8 (1), 15–19. https://doi.org/10.1177/193758671400800103

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Writing Ethical Papers: Top Tips to Ace Your Assignment

17 August, 2021

13 minutes read

Author: Kate Smith

Writing a complex essay paper can be a tough task for any student, especially for those who do not have their skills developed well or do not have enough time for lengthy assignments. At the same time, the majority of college students need to keep their grades high to maintain their right to receive merit-based scholarships and continue their studies the next year. To help you with your ethical papers writing, we created this guide. Below, you will find out what an ethical paper is, how to structure it and write it efficiently.

What is an Ethical Paper?

An ethics paper is a type of an argumentative assignment that deals with a certain ethical problem that a student has to describe and solve. Also, it can be an essay where a certain controversial event or concept is elaborated through an ethical lens (e.g. moral rules and principles), or a certain ethical dilemma is explained. Since ethics is connected to moral concepts and choices, a student needs to have a fair knowledge of philosophy and get ready to answer questions related to relationships, justice, professional and social duties, the origin of good and evil, etc., to write a quality paper. Also, writing an ethics paper implies that a student should process a great amount of information regarding their topic and analyze it according to paper terms.

General Aspects of Writing an Ethics Paper

Understanding the ethical papers’ features.

Every essay has differences and features that make it unique. Writing ethical papers implies that a student will use their knowledge of morality and philosophy to resolve a certain ethical dilemma or solve a situation. It can also be a paper in which a student needs to provide their reasoning on ethical or legal circumstances that follow a social issue. Finally, it can be an assignment in which an ethical concept and its application are described. On the contrary, a history essay deals with events that took place somewhen earlier, while a narrative essay is a paper where students demonstrate their storytelling skills, etc.

Defining What Type of Essay Should Be Written

Most of the time, ethical paper topics imply that a student will write an argumentative essay; however, ethics essays can also be descriptive and expository. Each of these essay types has different guidelines for writing, so be sure you know them before you start writing your papers on ethics. In case you missed this step in your ethical paper preparation stage, you would end up writing a paper that misses many important points.

Studying the Ethical Paper Guidelines

Once you get your ethical paper assignment, look through the guidelines that your instructor provided to you. If you receive them during the class, don’t hesitate to pose any questions immediately to remove any misunderstanding before writing an ethics paper outline, or ask for references that you need to use. When you are about to write your first draft, don’t rush: read the paper instructions once again to make sure you understand what is needed from you.

Paying Attention to the Paper Topic

The next thing you need to pay attention to is the ethical paper topic: once you are given one, make sure it falls into the scope of your educational course. After that, consider what additional knowledge may be needed to elaborate on your topic and think about what courses of your program could be helpful for it. Once you are done, read through your topic again to recheck whether you understand your assignment right.

Understanding the Notions of Ethical Arguments, Ethical and Legal Implications, and Ethical Dilemma

Last but not least, another important factor is that a student has to understand the basic terms of the assignment to write a high-quality paper. Ethical arguments are a set of moral rules that are used to defend your position on an ethical issue stated in your essay topic. We refer to ethical versus legal implications when we think about the compensation for certain ethical dilemma outcomes and whether it should be a moral punishment or legal judgment. An ethical dilemma itself refers to a problem or situation which makes an individual doubt what position to take: e.g, abortion, bribery, corruption, etc.

Writing Outline and Structure of an Ethics Paper

Every essay has a structure that makes it a solid piece of writing with straight reasoning and argumentation, and an ethics paper is not an exclusion. This paper has an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Below, we will describe how each part of ethical papers should be organized and what information they should contain.

First comes the introduction. It is the opening part of your paper which helps a reader to get familiar with your topic and understand what your paper will be about. Therefore, it should contain some information on your ethics paper topics and a thesis statement, which is a central statement of your paper.

The essay body is the most substantive part of your essay where all the reasoning and arguments should be presented. Each paragraph should contain an argument that supports or contradicts your thesis statement and pieces of evidence to support your position. Pick at least three arguments to make your position clear in your essay, and then your paper will be considered well-structured.

The third part of an ethics paper outline is a conclusion, which is a finishing essay part. Its goal is to wrap up the whole essay and make the author’s position clear for the last time. The thoughtful formulation in this essay part should be especially clear and concise to demonstrate the writer’s ability to make conclusions and persuade readers.

Also, don’t forget to include the works cited page after your writing. It should mention all the reference materials that you used in your paper in the order of appearance or in the alphabetical one. This page should be formatted according to the assigned formatting style. Most often, the most frequently used format for ethical papers is APA.

20 Examples of Ethical Paper Topics

Are there any issues in the 21st century that we can consider immoral and why?
What is corporate ethics?
Why is being selfish no longer an issue in 2023?
Euthanasia: pros and cons
Marijuana legalization: should it be allowed all over the world?
Is abortion an ethical issue nowadays?
Can we invent a universal religion appropriate for all?
Is the church necessary to pray to God?
Can we forgive infidelity and should we do it?
How to react if you are witnessing high school bullying?
What are the ways to respond to a family abusing individual?
How to demand your privacy protection in a digital world?
The history of the American ethical thought
Can war be ethical and what should the conflicting sides do to make it possible?
Ethical issues of keeping a zoo in 2023
Who is in charge of controlling the world’s population?
How to achieve equality in the world’s rich and poor gap?
Is science ethical?
How ethical is genetic engineering?
Why many countries refuse to go back to carrying out the death penalty?

Ethical Papers Examples

If you still have no idea about how to write an ethics paper, looking through other students’ successful examples is always a good idea. Below, you can find a relevant ethics paper example that you can skim through and see how to build your reasoning and argumentation in your own paper.

https://www.currentschoolnews.com/education-news/ethics-essay-examples/

https://sites.psu.edu/academy/2014/11/18/essay-2-personal-ethics-and-decision-making/

Ethical Papers Writing Tips

Choose a topic that falls into the ethics course program.

In case you were not given the ethics paper topic, consider choosing it yourself. To do that, brainstorm the ethical issues that fascinate you enough to do research. List all these issues on a paper sheet and then cross out those that are too broad or require expertise that you don’t have. The next step you need to take is to choose three or four ethical topics for papers from the list and try to do a quick search online to find out whether these topics are elaborated enough to find sources and reference materials on them. Last, choose one topic that you like the most and find the most relevant one in terms of available data for reference.

Do your research

Once the topic is chosen and organized, dive deeper into it to find the most credible, reliable, and trusted service. Use your university library, online scientific journals, documentaries, and other sources to get the information from. Remember to take notes while working with every new piece of reference material to not forget the ideas that you will base your argumentation on.

Follow the guidelines for a paper outline

During the preparation for your ethical paper and the process of writing it, remember to follow your professor’s instructions (e.g. font, size, spacing, citation style, etc.). If you neglect them, your grade for the paper will decrease significantly.

Write the essay body first

Do not rush to start writing your ethics papers from the very beginning; to write a good essay, you need to have your outline and thesis statement first. Then, go to writing body paragraphs to demonstrate your expertise on the issue you are writing about. Remember that one supporting idea should be covered in one paragraph and should be followed by the piece of evidence that confirms it.

Make sure your introduction and conclusion translate the same message

After your essay body is done, write a conclusion and an introduction for your paper. The main tip regarding these ethics paper parts is that you should make them interrelated: your conclusion has to restate your introduction but not repeat it. Also, a conclusion should wrap up your writing and make it credible for the audience.

Add citations

Every top-quality paper has the works cited page and citations to demonstrate that the research on the topic has been carried out. Therefore, do not omit this point when formatting your paper: add all the sources to the works cited page and pay attention to citing throughout the text. The latter should be done according to the formatting style indicated in your instructions.

Edit your paper

Last but not least is the editing and proofreading stage that you need to carry out before you submit your paper to your instructor. Consider keeping your first draft away from sight for a day or two to have a rest, and then go back to check it for errors and redundant phrases. Don’t rush to change anything immediately after finishing your writing since you are already tired and less focused, so some mistakes may be missed.

Writing Help by Handmadewriting

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How to Write an Ethics Paper

Last Updated: May 16, 2023 Approved

This article was co-authored by Emily Listmann, MA . Emily Listmann is a Private Tutor and Life Coach in Santa Cruz, California. In 2018, she founded Mindful & Well, a natural healing and wellness coaching service. She has worked as a Social Studies Teacher, Curriculum Coordinator, and an SAT Prep Teacher. She received her MA in Education from the Stanford Graduate School of Education in 2014. Emily also received her Wellness Coach Certificate from Cornell University and completed the Mindfulness Training by Mindful Schools. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 100% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 252,967 times.

Writing an ethics paper can present some unique challenges. For the most part, the paper will be written like any other essay or research paper, but there are some key differences. An ethics paper will generally require you to argue for a specific position rather than simply present an overview of an issue. Arguing this position will also involve presenting counterarguments and then refuting them. Finally, ensuring that your reasoning is valid and sound and citing the appropriate sources will allow you to write an ethics paper that will satisfy any critic.

Getting Started

Step 1 Make sure that you understand the assignment.

What is the main objective of the assignment?
What specific things do you need to do in order to get a good grade?
How much time will you need to complete the assignment?

Step 2 Choose a topic for your ethics paper.

For example, you might begin with a topic of "ethical problems of euthanasia." This is very broad, and so forms a good starting point.

Remember, you may refine your topic even further after you have begun writing your paper. This is perfectly acceptable, and is part of the advantage of writing a paper in multiple drafts.

Step 4 Outline the relevant issues to your topic.

For example, you might include issues such as: "describing specifically what is meant by 'extreme, constant pain.' "Other issues might include, "the rights and responsibilities of physicians regarding euthanasia," and "voluntary versus involuntary euthanasia."
After making this list, group or order them in some way. For example, you might imagine yourself taking the position that euthanasia is acceptable in this circumstance, and you could order the issues based on how you would draw supporting evidence and build your claim.

Developing Your Thesis Statement

In your thesis, you should take a specific stand on the ethical issue. For example, you might write your thesis as follows: "Euthanasia is an immoral option even when patients are in constant, extreme pain."

Step 2 Remove ambiguous language to clarify your exact position.

For example, this thesis statement is ambiguous: "Patients should not undergo euthanasia even when suffering constant, extreme pain." With how it's worded, it's unclear whether you mean that euthanasia should be outlawed or that it is morally wrong.
Clarify your position to create a strong thesis: "Euthanasia is an immoral option even when patients are in constant, extreme pain."

Step 3 Make sure the focus of your thesis aligns with your intended focus for the paper.

For example, in the thesis, "It is immoral for patients to choose euthanasia even when suffering constant, extreme pain," the moral burden is on the patient's actions. The author of this thesis would need to make sure to focus on the patient in the essay and not to focus on the moral implications of the doctor's actions.
If the thesis you have written does not reflect what you want to argue in your paper, start over and draft a new thesis statement.

Conducting Research

Step 1 Select sources to research before writing your ethics paper.

Ask a librarian for help finding sources if you are not sure how to access your library’s databases.
A simple way to strengthen your argument through citations is by incorporating some relevant statistics. Simple statistics can have a major impact if presented after you've made a bold assertion. For instance, you may claim that the patient's family members would be unduly traumatized if the patient chose euthanasia, and then cite a university study that catalogued a majority of families reporting trauma or stress in this situation.
Another helpful citation is one in which the broad issue itself is discussed. For instance, you might cite a prominent ethicist's position on your issue to strengthen your position.

The author and his or her credentials. Does the source provide the author’s first and last name and credentials (M.D., Ph.D, etc.)? Steer clear of sources without an author attached to them or that lack credentials when credentials seem crucial, such as in an article about a medical subject. [3] X Research source
Type of publication. Is the publication a book, journal, magazine, or website? Is the publisher an academic or educational institution? Does the publisher have a motive other than education? Who is the intended audience? Ask yourself these questions to determine if this source is reliable. For example, a university or government website might be reliable, but a site that sells items may be biased toward what they're selling.
Citations. How well has the author researched his or her topic? Check the author’s bibliography or works cited page. If the author has not provided any sources, then you may want to look for a different source. [4] X Research source
Bias. Has the author presented an objective, well-reasoned account of the topic? If the sources seems skewed towards one side of the argument, then it may not be a good choice. [5] X Research source
Publication date. Does this source present the most up to date information on the subject? If the sources is outdated, then try to find something more recent. [6] X Research source

To check for comprehension after reading a source, try to summarize the source in your own words and generate a response to the author’s main argument. If you cannot do one or both of these things, then you may need to read the source again.
Creating notecards for your sources may also help you to organize your ideas. Write the citation for the source on the top of the notecard, then write a brief summary and response to the article in the lined area of the notecard. [7] X Research source

Remember to indicate when you have quoted a source in your notes by putting it into quotation marks and including information about the source such as the author’s name, article or book title, and page number. [8] X Research source

Writing and Revising Your Ethics Paper

To expand on your outline, write a couple of sentences describing and/or explaining each of the items in your outline. Include a relevant source for each item as well.

Step 2 Make sure that you include all of the key parts of an ethics paper.

Check your outline to see if you have covered each of these items in this order. If not, you will need to add a section and use your sources to help inform that section.

Step 3 Plan to write your ethics paper using several drafts.

In your first draft, focus on the quality of the argument, rather than the quality of the prose. If the argument is structured well and each conclusion is supported by your reasoning and by cited evidence, you will be able to focus on the writing itself on the second draft.
Unless major revisions are needed to your argument (for example, if you have decided to change your thesis statement), use the second draft to strengthen your writing. Focus on sentence lengths and structures, vocabulary, and other aspects of the prose itself.

Step 4 Give yourself a break before revising.

Try to allow yourself a few days or even a week to revise your paper before it is due. If you do not allow yourself enough time to revise, then you will be more prone to making simple mistakes and your grade may suffer as a result. [10] X Research source

Step 5 Consider your paper from multiple angles as your revise.

Does my paper fulfill the requirements of the assignment? How might it score according to the rubric provided by my instructor?
What is your main point? How might you clarify your main point?
Who is your audience? Have you considered their needs and expectations?
What is your purpose? Have you accomplished your purpose with this paper?
How effective is your evidence? How might your strengthen your evidence?
Does every part of your paper relate back to your thesis? How might you improve these connections?
Is anything confusing about your language or organization? How might your clarify your language or organization?
Have you made any errors with grammar, punctuation, or spelling? How can you correct these errors?
What might someone who disagrees with you say about your paper? How can you address these opposing arguments in your paper? [11] X Research source

Step 6 Read printed version of your final draft out loud.

As you read your paper out loud, highlight or circle any errors and revise as necessary before printing your final copy.

Community Q&A

If at all possible, have someone else read through your paper before submitting it. They can provide valuable feedback on style as well as catching grammatical errors. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

Things You'll Need

Word-processing software
Access to your library’s databases
Pencil and highlighter

↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/688/1/
↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/553/03/
↑ http://guides.jwcc.edu/content.php?pid=65900&sid=538553
↑ http://www.writing.utoronto.ca/advice/reading-and-researching/notes-from-research
↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/658/05/
↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/561/05/

About This Article

To write an ethics paper, start by researching the issue you want to write about and evaluating your sources for potential bias and trustworthiness. Next, develop a thesis statement that takes a specific stand on the issue and create an outline that includes the key arguments. As you write, avoid using words like “could” or “might,” which will seem ambiguous to the reader. Once you’ve finished your paper, take a break for a few days so your mind is clear, then go back and revise what you wrote, focusing on the quality of your argument. For tips from our Education reviewer on how to annotate source material as you research, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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180 Ethics Topics & Ethical Questions to Debate

Our code of ethics is derived from what we think is right or wrong. On top of that, we have to agree to the moral standards established by the society we live in. Conventional norms generally label theft, murder, or harassment as bad. However, there are many influences that impact our considerations and understanding of ethics.

Ethics is a branch of philosophy that studies moral issues. This article outlines the three different types of ethics and presents a list of compelling ethics topics for essays and research papers, as well as ethical questions to debate.

You don’t know how to write about ethics or which ethical argument topic to choose for your paper? Maybe your assignment deadline is dreadfully looming over you? Our custom writing service is happy to help you craft a fantastic essay on ethics whenever the need arises.

🔝 Top 10 Ethical Topics

🧑🤝🧑Types of Ethics
🤔 Ethical Issues
🖥️ Computer Ethics
🧬 Bioethics
🚓👮 Criminal Justice
⚖️ Ethical Dilemmas

⭐ Top 10 Ethics Topics to Debate

😈 ethical questions to debate, 🔍 references.

Religious beliefs vs. medical care
Issues behind unpaid internships
Toxic environment at the workplace
The dilemma of reporting an accident
Should one’s political leanings be private?
The limits of doctor-patient confidentiality
Is it ethical to pay children for good grades?
Ethics at the workplace and discrimination
Should social media be allowed at the workplace?
Promotion of environmental responsibility in business

🧑🤝🧑 Types of Ethics

Modern philosophy splits ethics into three groups: metaethics, normative ethics, and applied ethics.

The core question of metaethics is: “What is morality, and where does it come from?” It is also concerned with the emergence of human values, motivation, and reasoning.
Normative ethics seeks to answer the question, “How should I act?” An example of a normative moral theory is Kant’s Categorical Imperative: Act only according to that maxim whereby you can, at the same time, will that it should become a universal law . In other words: be kind.
Applied ethics seeks to apply moral considerations into real-life controversial subjects. Its contents can vary greatly and touch bioethics as well as criminal justice. It studies specific actions and practices from the point of moral acceptance.

However, ethics does not end with these three types. Over the centuries, philosophers have proposed various ethical theories. Their four general categories are deontological, utilitarian, right, and virtue ethics.

A deontologist is a person with a set of moral duties from which they will not adhere. When faced with an ethical conflict, they will always act according to their self-proclaimed obligations.
For a utilitarian , a decision needs to yield the greatest benefit for the majority.
If rights are the root of an ethical theory, these are the highest priority. A person’s rights can either be established in a society by law or bestowed from one individual upon another.
Judging someone by virtue means considering a person’s character rather than their actions. Here, an individual’s reputation, motivation, and ethics play a crucial role.

Now that you know the basics, you have the perfect ground to start your ethics essay.

🤔 Ethical Topics for an Essay

Ethical issues are situations in which an individual needs to evaluate which course of action is morally right. Essays on this topic shine a light on difficult questions. Therefore, students need to defend their position convincingly.

Discuss what we should do about climate change.
What are the moral problems surrounding abortion?
Can we still justify eating meat?
Investigate the use of plastic in the beauty industry.
Is it unethical to be extremely rich?
Should you buy Nestlé products despite the fact that the company privatizes water?
Is the unequal distribution of wealth unethical?
Discuss how workplace ethics should take sexism into account.
What can we do to combat racism?
Why are LGBT+ people discriminated against?
Should euthanasia be legal?
Can war be ethical?
Should schools punish students for attending the Fridays for Future protests?
Would drug use be unethical if it were legal?
Explain the moral problems that come with automating jobs.

Is it ethical to hire someone to do assignments for you?
How far should everyone’s right to privacy go?
Is using animals for scientific testing unethical?
How should governments deal with refugees?
Discuss the carbon impact of having children.
Can modern societies still be held accountable for what their nation did in the past?
Analyze the benefits and disadvantages of universal income.
How much control should the state have on the press?
Should schools teach religion?
What are ethical concerns regarding downloading media from the internet?

🖥️ Computer Ethics Essay Topics

The advent of information technology has altered every aspect of our lives. Computer ethics applies traditional moral theories to everything surrounding computers and cyber security. The list below contains enthralling ethical topics concerned with the realm of computing.

How much work should we leave entirely to computers?
Discuss the dangers of storing vulnerable data online.
Are computers secure enough to contain so much information about our lives?
Discuss if hacking can be morally justified.
Examine privacy-related concerns regarding computers .
Should all software be free?
How can you legitimize the possession of a computer algorithm patent?
What can be done to prevent cyberbullying?
Investigate the moral effects anonymity has on internet users.
Whose laws apply if you wish to protect your rights online?
Discuss how the necessity to own a computer impacts poorer nations and people.
Which ethical problems can people face due to the internet’s possibilities?
When is sabotaging another person’s computer justified?
Analyze the social responsibility that comes with developing new software.
Are computer crimes less harmful than crimes against humans?
Who owns information that is distributed online?
What is more important: easy accessibility or privacy?
Investigate the moral problems associated with AI.
If a computer makes a critical mistake, whose fault is it?
Discuss the importance of netiquette.
How should tech companies deal with ethical problems?
Can AI algorithms ensure ethical behavior?
Why do tech companies need ethics boards?
Which ethical conflicts appear when using drones?
Investigate racial bias in facial recognition systems.

🏅 Sports Ethics Topics for a Paper

Morality in sports is based on integrity, respect, responsibility, and fairness. Often, this puts athletes into a dilemma: do I want to be ethical, or do I want to win? Answering these questions is not always easy. The following list compiles sports topics for a research paper on ethics.

What are moral complications when using enhancement drugs?
Is gamesmanship unethical?
How important is ethics in sports?
Discuss the moral responsibilities of athletes .
What are ethical reasons to pay college athletes?
Investigate the ethical implications of kneeling for the national anthem .
Can college sports and the principles of higher education go hand in hand?
Investigate the sexist bias in sports.
Was it selfish when the American female soccer team went to court to demand equal pay?

What moral obligations do universities have towards their athletes?
When can you justify cheating?
Concerning the environment, how can professional sports events be ethical?
Which ethical issues do healthcare workers have concerning sportspeople?
Which moral duties do teams’ coaches have?
Are the extremely high salaries of sports professionals justified?
In 2003, the Olympics abolished the wild card system. Was that fair?
Because of the Paralympics, disabled athletes cannot take part in the real Olympics. Is that discriminatory?
Discuss how money influences the fairness of a sport.
Debate if and how children are exploited to become elite athletes.
Which moral duties should a good sport follow?
How much should parents get involved in their child’s physical education?
Investigate if everyday codes of ethics should apply to sports.
Discuss the ethical implications of motorsports.
Who is responsible if a player gets injured?
Are referees always fair?

🧬 Bioethics Topics for an Essay

Bioethics comes into play when we talk about life and health. It expands from genetics to neurology and even plastic surgery. In the name of the common good, researchers often find themselves in conflicting positions. This makes bioethics an especially exciting topic to write about.

Discuss the moral conflicts of genetic engineering.
What are the ethical responsibilities associated with using CRISPR?
Investigate the problems of stem cell research.
When can humans be used for drug testing?
Should vaccinations be mandatory for everyone?
Investigate the ethics that apply to a medical worker.
Discuss the harmful effects of plastic surgery.
Should a person who is brain dead be kept alive?
Is it just that medical care is linked to an individual’s ability to pay?
Should everyone be an organ donor by default?
What is more important: a person’s right to privacy or the information of at-risk relatives?
Is prenatal invasive testing ethical?
Should neuroenhancement drugs be legal?
Discuss ethical conflicts concerning Disclosure and Barring Service.
Is it ethical to improve memory functions with brain stimulation?
Analyze the ethical issues concerning precision medicine.
What are the problems of surrogacy?
Should medical personnel collect healthy tissues of a deceased person without their consent?

Bioethics is closely connected with the fields of technology, medicine, politics, philosophy, and law,

What should be done with the child of a brain-dead pregnant woman?
How important is a subject’s anonymity during research?
Discuss the ethics of shared decision-making .
How much responsibility do mentally challenged people carry for their actions?
Was Sweden right not to impose strict lockdown rules during the COVID-19 pandemic?
To what extent are businesses responsible for their employees’ health?
Should universal healthcare be free?

🚓👮 Criminal Justice Ethics Topics to Write About

Law enforcers should always act ethically. Unfortunately, it is not always the case. Police officers and attorneys often end up in morally ambiguous situations. In many cases, they don’t do what the public deems the right thing. Below are the examples of criminal justice ethics topics.

When is it legitimate for a police officer to use violence?
How can an officer remain impartial?
Should law enforcement visibly wear guns in public?
How much force is too much?
Investigate possible ethical implications associated with true crime podcasts.
Should prostitution be legal in the US?
How ethical is interrogation?
Can torture be justified?
Discuss the ethical consequences of lying when working in criminal justice .
Is working undercover deception?
Debate whether it is an American citizen’s moral duty to participate in jury duty.
Should the police be allowed to access everyone’s data?
Discuss the moral complications of “innocent until proven guilty.”
Should convicted pedophiles be allowed to see their children?
Can teaching ethics at schools prevent crime?
Analyze ethical problems of the Stanford Prison Experiment.
Should NATO have become involved in America’s Afghan war?
What are the ethical implications of shooter drills at school?
Was Edward Snowden morally in the wrong?
How should we deal with child soldiers?
Discuss if the prosecution of Julian Assange is justified.
Examine the ethical problems of private prisons.
What moral obligations should someone consider when granting prisoners the right to work?
When is capital punishment justified?
Is it ethical to incarcerate juvenile offenders?

⚖️ Ethical Dilemma Topics to Write About

An ethical issue becomes a dilemma when different moral standards clash with each other. In this situation, it is impossible to find a path to an ethically permissible solution that is unambiguous. The following sample topics are a solid base to start a discussion on morals.

Should parents watch over what their children do on the internet?
Would you report an accident you caused if there are no witnesses?
What should a doctor do if a patient refuses life-saving treatment for religious reasons?
Should you turn down a client if their political views do not match yours?
Would you promote something you are not convinced of to get money?
Should you lie to land a job that gets you out of poverty?

Your partner cheated on you. Now, you get the chance to take your revenge with someone you really like. Would you do it?
Should students use automated writing tools like free thesis generators , summarizers, and paraphrasers?
Your teacher is continuously mocking your classmate. You are a teacher’s pet. Would you speak up?
Your son likes to wear dresses. One day, he asks if he can wear one to school. Will you let him?
You are very religious. Your daughter wants to get married to another woman and invites you to her wedding. What will you do?
Prenatal testing showed that your unborn child has a disability. Would you terminate pregnancy?
You are in a long-term relationship. Suddenly, your partner gets a job offer in another part of the world. What would you do?
You have a terminal illness. This makes you a financial burden to your relatives. Are you obliged towards them to quit your treatment?
You have a red and a blue candy bar. Blue is your favorite, but you also know that it’s your friend’s favorite. Will you give it to them?
A friend asked you for a loan. Since then, they have not given you anything back. They are still not wholly stable financially. Will you ask them to return the money?
Your grandma passed away and bequeathed her favorite mink coat to you. You are a vegan. What do you do?
A few years ago, you borrowed a gun from a friend. Now, they ask for it back, but their mental state seems to be rapidly deteriorating. This makes you scared they are going to shoot someone, or themselves. What do you do?
You find out that your friend cheats on their spouse. You are close friends with their family. Will you tell on them?
For your birthday, your friend gave you a sweater they’ve made themselves. You think it’s ugly. Do you tell them?
You are a vegan. Should you buy vegan products which are highly problematic to produce?
You are in a restaurant. Your order arrives too late. The waitress looks stressed. Will you make her take it back?
You went to the store and bought a new, expensive item. The clerk gives you too much change. Do you give it back?
You are walking with a friend and find $50 on the floor. Would you share it with them?
Your child firmly believes in Santa Claus. One Christmas, they start suspecting that he is not real. What do you do?
Is having pets ethical?
Can eating meat be justified?
Should we defund the police?
Should atomic bombs be banned?
Can discrimination be justified?
Is it ethical to ask someone’s age?
Should children get paid for chores?
Is it unprofessional to send voice messages?
Should children be allowed to vote?
Should influencers promote products they don’t use?
Should there be any limitations to doctor and patient confidentiality?
Should physician-assisted suicide be allowed?
Can teenagers get plastic surgery?
What to do when you find out that your relative has committed an offense?
What to do when you see your friend cheating on the exam?
Should sportsmen be paid more than teachers?
Should gender quotas be used during parliamentary elections?
Do companies have the right to collect information about their customers?
Can politicians appeal to religious issues during electoral campaigns?
Should fake news be censored in a democratic society?

We hope that in this list you’ve found the ethics topic that fits you the best. Good luck with your assignment!

Essay on Ethics for Students and Children

500+ words essay on ethics.

Essay on Ethics – Ethics refers to the concepts of right and wrong conduct. Furthermore, ethics is basically a branch of philosophy dealing with the issue of morality. Moreover, ethics consist of the rules of behavior. It certainly defines how a person should behave in specific situations. The origin of ethics is old and it started from the Stone Age . Most noteworthy, over the centuries many religions and philosophers have made contributions to ethics.

Branches of Ethics

First of all, comes the descriptive branch of ethics. Descriptive ethics involve what people actually believe to be right or wrong. On the basis of this, the law decides whether certain human actions are acceptable or not. Most noteworthy, the moral principles of society keep changing from time to time. Therefore, descriptive ethics are also known as comparative ethics. This is because; it compares the ethics of past and present as well as ethics of one society and another.

Normative ethics is another important branch of ethics. Moreover, Normative ethics deals with certain norms or set of considerations. Furthermore, these norms or set of considerations dictate how one should act. Therefore, normative ethics sets out the rightness or wrongness of actions or behaviours. Another name for normative ethics is prescriptive ethics. This is because; it has principles which determine whether an action is right or wrong.

Meta-ethics consists of the origin of the ethical concepts themselves. Meta-ethics is not concerned whether an action is good or evil. Rather, meta-ethics questions what morality itself is. Therefore, meta-ethics questions the very essence of goodness or rightness. Most noteworthy, it is a highly abstract way of analyzing ethics.

Applied ethics involves philosophical examination or certain private and public life issues. Furthermore, this examination of issues takes place from a moral standpoint. Moreover, this branch of ethics is very essential for professionals. Also, these professionals belong to different walks of life and include doctors , teachers , administrators, rulers.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Applications of Ethics

Bioethicists deal with the ethical questions that arise in the relationships among life sciences, biotechnology, medicine, politics, and philosophy. Furthermore, Bioethics refers to the study of controversial ethics brought about by advances in biology and medicine .

Ethics also have a significant application in business. Moreover, business ethics examines ethical principles in relation to a business environment.

Military ethics involve the questions regarding the application of ethos of the soldier. Furthermore, military ethics involves the laws of war. Moreover, it also includes the question of justification of initiating military force.

Public sector ethics deals with a set of principles that guide public officials in their service. Furthermore, the public sector involves the morality of decision making. Most noteworthy, it consists of the question of what best serves the public’s interests.

In conclusion, ethics is certainly one of the most important requirements of humanity. Furthermore, without ethics, the world would have been an evil and chaotic place. Also, the advancement of humanity is not possible without ethics. There must be widespread awareness of ethics among the youth of society.

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177 Interesting Ethics Paper Topics For Your Thesis

Ethics is a branch of study in philosophy that studies the concept of morality—what is good or bad, what is acceptable or unacceptable. It’s a philosophical theory that looks into moral rules and codes, principles, value systems, and other related concepts.

In academia, an ethical theory is used as one of the analytical tools in drawing analysis on several socio-cultural topics. Ethics can be applied to any particular subject matter in human society. And, on this, so many compelling, controversial or interesting ethical topics for academic essays and research papers have continued to spring up.

For students writing either an essay or a research paper on ethics, there are some relevant things to note about a good essay/research topic and writing a dissertation. They include:

Brainstorm on different topics Always go for a topic you are familiar with Choose a topic that has enough “flesh”. This is important as interesting topics will help you develop your essay/research Define your subject of interest. It makes the writing easier Properly researching for topics that serve contemporary social relevance Outlining is important for your research topic

What following some of these processes does for your essay/research/thesis is that it enriches your work and affords you the ability to communicate ideas clearly to readers. Here are some topics in ethics you can use for your essay/research.

Interesting Top Level Ethics Paper Topics for All Students

Writing a paper on ethics makes for an interesting writing experience because they usually require that the writer make a case for a particular subject based on whether the subject is right or wrong. There are so many ethical topics for papers. As a student, there are several ethical questions to debate, and you can choose to model your topic using some of these samples:

Discuss what should be done concerning the rise in the ban on safe abortion
Is the right to safe abortion practice unethical?
Should abortion practice be promoted or championed for women in society?
Are humans truly the root source for the issues of climate change and global warming the world is currently experiencing?
Is it right to discriminate against the sexes?
Is there a defining difference between sexes and gender?
Is the practice of gender-based violence ethical?
Should safe sexual practices be promoted?
Sex: A Study of the growing practice of sexual relationships outside marriage
Domestic Violence and how it can be combated
Marijuana: The distinction to its health roles and health challenges it poses on individuals
Is it unethical to promote capitalism and capitalist concepts?
A Study of Racism and measures to ensure its decline
Is it ethical to be a millionaire while there are so many less privileged people?
A study of the ethical challenges that come with being in the academia
Is war an ethical practice?
Why LGBTQ+ people should not be discriminated against
What are the ways workplace ethics can address issues of homophobia and internalized sexism?
Is sexism in the workplace an ethical practice?
The issue of microaggression and how it can be addressed
A study of why workplaces need ethical conduct that monitors issues of workplace harassment
Should salaries be uneven?
How unethical are uneven salary payment structures?
Should start-up tech companies hire more men for starters?
How people can prioritize online privacy
Is bridging online privacy unethical?
Is the right to privacy unethical?

Engaging Ethical Dilemma Topics

As ethics deals with the debate on morals, one of the ways topics on ethics manifests is in the subject of dilemma. Topics like this focus on trying to find a suitable justification for one idea over another. There are several ethics topics to write about on this subject. Some of them include:

Should students be allowed to bring their phones to school?
Should parents police every social activity of their children?
Should teachers use the cane on students as a disciplinary measure?
Is flogging a good correctional practice?
Should you leave your partner if they are of opposing political views?
Should opposing religious beliefs be a deal-breaker in relationships?
Should capitalism be abolished completely?
Should a teacher maintain some level of friendship with their students?
Is there any lingering importance of capitalism to society?
Is revenge a viable option in a relationship if your partner cheats on you?
Is sharing your experiences online the same as showing off a lifestyle?
Should people from different religious beliefs and backgrounds partner?
Is checking the DNA of your children important or necessary?
Should parents enforce their children on behaviors to take up?
Can discipline properly correct the attitudes of a child?
Should eating junk foods be avoided completely?
Should Halloween Trick or Treat and Costume be prioritized over Thanksgiving Dinners?
Should children hold different religious beliefs from their parents while still young?
Does strict parenting serve as the best way to raise a child?
Is it important to reveal a secret to a friend or to keep one’s peace?
Should cooking at home be prioritized over eating out?
Is socialism a more suitable social practice than capitalism?
Is accepting financial assistance from your parents acceptable after a certain age?
Should school authorities seize phones brought to school?
Is sending a child to a mixed school better than same-sex schools?
Can afforestation alone save the world from global warming and the general climate change condition?
Does being educated equate with being intelligent?

Ethical Issues to Write about in Your College Essay

One important thing to note about ethical topics is that they touch across so many different subjects. As a college student preparing to write an essay on ethics, rest assured as there are so many ethics ideas to write about. Here are some ethical topics to write about:

Does Hiring female employees cover a company’s sexist motives?
Should Actors be paid more than teachers?
Taking medical decisions for a patient without their consent
How ethical is the interference of the judiciary by the legislative arm of government?
Is it ethical to fire someone due to their dress code?
Is it unethical to wear colored hair to work?
Is censorship ethical?
Where does media censorship draw the line?
Is it ethical for religious figureheads to meddle in state politics?
Should gender be the reason why a person is restricted access to certain social privileges?
Should sexuality be a discriminatory factor in society?
Should companies and places of work provide counseling and therapy services for their employees?
Can Children wear makeup on special occasions?
Is it unethical to make medical decisions for a patient without any recognizable relatives?
Does dress code need to affect how you are addressed?
Should implementing ethics in sports be recommended?
Is police brutality an ethical practice?
The impacts of the excessive consumption of media content?
Is the excessive use of social media healthy?
How can companies ensure paid maternal and paternal leave?
How can the inclusion of non-binary people in company policies promote growth?
Is exclusion on the grounds of sexuality ethical?
Is exclusion due to political beliefs unethical?
How to promote ethical work culture?
How can a company ensure that ethical practices are promoted in their companies?

Ethical Argument Topics to Write About

The best part about writing an ethical essay is that it is about anything that is of interest. An important aspect of the ethical argument topic is that it is supported with evidence. There are so many ethical topics to write about that fall within this category, and they include:

Is the having of ethical codes and conducts important in an organization?
Should people only implement progressive ideas to meet societal needs?
Why LGBTQ+ should not be discriminated against
Is it unethical to come to work late?
Is government-sanctioned execution an ethical practice?
Is the American incarceration system an effective corrective system?
Is corrective rape an ethical practice?
Should the issue of internalized homophobia be addressed?
Internalized patriarchy and internalized homophobia, which one births one
Should smoking weed be made legal?
Why do the less privileged need free healthcare services
A study of the effects of colonialism and internalized slavery
Must aspiring journalists only focus on journalism courses?
Addressing what it means to be of ethical behavior
Should students be given a take-home assignment?
Is there any academic relevance to assignments?
Is access to free healthcare important?
Does following the ethics code have abt social relevance?
What role should developed countries play for developing countries?
Is analysis writing an important aspect of literature?
What role does ethics play in schools
Should the address of global warming be continuous?
Is there room for possible positive developments in global warming?
Is the practice of ethics the same as moral teaching
Should schools create sex education into their education curriculum

Comprehensive Ethics Debate Topics for Anyone

Just like the argumentative ethics topic, a debate topic on ethics centers majorly on choosing a part to argue for or against. This argument also is wrapped with evidence to support it. Your ethic topics can be on any subject. You can choose moral topics or any other topic with relevance. Here are some lists of ethical debate topics anyone can write on:

Should the use of Contraceptives be promoted?
Does legalizing weed make it any healthier?
Should school children bring phones into school settings?
The health impact of excessive engagement on social media
Social relevance and importance of having ethical conducts
Do companies with ethical conduct grow ahead
Does ethics make a workplace safer?
Are there importance on why sex education should be added to student’s
Why safe abortion rights should be legalized
Why the discrimination based on sexuality is harmful
Why the practice of hedonism is important
Sexual pleasure: Is it morally good?
Is happiness dependent on an external factor?
Why Institutionalized racism is the root cause of racism and racist beliefs
Should the use of drugs be legalized?
Is there any progressive importance to having a conservative view on things?
Should social media apps allow explicit sexual content?
Should social app builders have access to individual account
Can homeschool match formal school training?
Should the government ensure censorship measures?
Is voting during elections the only form of patriotism?
Is voting a patriotic display
Are families allowed to have contradicting religious beliefs?
Should state governments have any interference with the federal government?
Should teenagers have access to contraceptives?

Good Ethical Research Papers for your Thesis or Dissertation

Writing either a thesis or a dissertation is a necessary part of academia. As a university student, you can’t graduate from only writing essays withiut writing your graduating thesis. There are so many areas your research paper about ethics can focus on. Here is a list of ethical topics:

The contemporary relevance of applied ethics
The psychological impacts of the proliferation of technology
A Case Study of the legality of weed
A multi-dimensional approach to the subject of marriage
An ethical approach to the killing of animals
A case study of the critical ethical debates on the use of contraception
An analytical study of the relevance of ethical conduct in the workplace
An investigation into the social relevance and importance of the beauty pageantry culture
A critical study of normative ethics
The role of applied ethics in the building of a healthy work culture
An overview of the barriers associated with good leadership practice
A Study of the importance of ethical practice in the healthcare system
The study of ethics in business social responsibility
An Overview on how Ethics promotes a saner working culture
A look into how ethics promotes healthy social relationships
The ethical relevance for Doctor and Patient Confidentiality
Malpractice and Negligence an ethically challenging issue within the healthcare system
The social and health relevance to access to free healthcare insurance
A Study of the social relevance of ethics
Violence: violence against animals is still abuse
A look into strategic approaches to managing cyber crimes
Ethic reasons for the separation of the church from politics
Ethical Conduct: How Organizations with practicable ethics produces a toxic work environment
A look into how Social media negatively impacts the IQ of a student
The role of self-awareness and professional responsibility impacts social ethics in the workplace

Good Ethical Questions for Discussion

Primarily, ethics asks and answers the question of wrong or good. There are so many social issues that will make for good ethical questions for discussion. Here is a list of ethical questions for students to form insights from:

How does ethics help to promote healthy workplace awareness?
Does the practice of abortion negate morality?
Is it right for a rape victim to be denied access to safe and free abortion?
How do homophobia, racism, misogyny, and ableist practices hinder social growth?
Should there be free access to condoms and contraceptive pills?
Is free access to contraceptives better than the provision of menstrual materials
How can racism be dismantled in an organization without consideration to institutionalized racism?
How does the continuous promotion of capitalist concepts hinder societal progress?
Does capitalism truly hinder social growth?
Why should there be free access to contraceptive materials especially for women?
What are the possible feasible solutions to the issue of climate change?
Is it unethical not to share the wealth?
Is engaging in warfare the right way to bring solutions?
Does the use of makeup contradict the concept of beauty?
Why are LGBTQ+ rights human rights?
Is the legalization of cannabis ethical?
Does the way you dress need to be the reason you are addressed a certain way?
Are there moral problems that come with job automation?
What can be done to combat the use of harmful substances
Why should companies stop discriminating based on sex?
What is the social relevance of providing workplace access?
Why should parents and teachers stop flogging students?
What is the distinction between discipline and strictness?
Should religious beliefs be a dealbreaker in any relationship?

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The Importance of Ethics in Research Essay

To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
As a template for you assignment

Introduction

Factors that increase vulnerability of subjects to research abuse, the solution to reduce vulnerability of subjects to research abuse.

In science and medical research, ethics is essential in enhancing the safety and well-being of the subjects or participants. Different studies globally expose vulnerable populations or subjects to abuse, affecting their overall health. In the same case, researchers are employing diverse strategies to enhance ethics and reduce subjects’ vulnerabilities to negative implications of studies and abuse. For these reasons, it is essential to examine the factors that enhance subjects’ vulnerability to abuse and maltreatment during scientific studies. These reasons are economic and financial problems, impractical hope, improper patient advocacy, as well as non-compliance to research ethics. Contrarily, encouraging compliance with ethical principles during research would reduce subjects’ susceptibility to abuse and negative research implications.

Economic and financial issues are among the factors that increase subjects’ vulnerability to abuse during research. Kelly (2013) indicates that “people struggling to put food on the table and a roof over their heads” are vulnerable to abuse during clinical trials and pharmaceutical studies. Washington (2008) also notes that “jobless white men turned their noses at the disgusting work and partly pay” when referring to a perilous clinical experiment conducted in 1935 by the University of Pennsylvania. The sentiment indicates that the university conducted unethical and dangerous medical research on subjects with economic and financial problems (Washington, 2008). The phrase “when you see an opportunity to feed your starving family, […], or get treatment for a terminal disease?” also indicates how financial issues make subjects partake in unsafe clinical trials (Kelly, 2013). Thus, these studies increase the health risks, burden, disparity, and complications among subjects from developing and low-income countries as well as communities.

Unrealistic hope is another factor that increases the risks of abuse among subjects of research activities. According to Washington (2008), patients desperate for healing from diseases, surviving, living longer, and stressed about their health conditions are vulnerable to abuse during medical studies. The phrase “was described to him as his last chance at a meaningful life” shows that James Quinn was a victim of research abuse because of hoped to live a productive life after artificial heart implantation (Washington, 2008). The quote, “Do you have a choice about participating when you see an opportunity to (…) get treatment for a terminal disease,” indicates that subjects are always hopeful of improving their health after clinical studies (Kelly, 2008). This makes patients accept risky treatments or clinical trials that are mentally or physically abusive to their health, hoping to enhance their lifespan.

Improper patient advocacy and education are also major factors that increase the dangers of abusing subjects during clinical research. Washington (2008) questions how medical researchers and providers empower patients about the risks and benefits of clinical trials before treatments. Washington (2008) asks, “But are such warnings offered in a fair and intelligible manner?” The quote proves that researchers obtain patients’ consent for treatments when they are mentally, emotionally, and cognitively incapable of making informed decisions about these interventions. Kelly (2013) also agrees that healthcare researchers fail to provide accurate and quality patient information before clinical trials. The sentence “one of the most commonly cited ethical qualms with clinical trials tends to be misinformation” indicates that patients’ advocacy teams misinform subjects before clinical trials (Kelly, 2013). The wrong information affects the ability of patients to make informed decisions about participating or not partaking in medical studies.

Finally, non-compliance to research ethics and regulations among researchers also makes subjects vulnerable to abuse during studies. Washington (2008) indicates that “the informed consent process consists of much more than obtaining a patient signature on a piece of paper.” The quote implies that medical researchers are violating the informed consent ethics of research that requires patients’ participation only after knowing all the risks and benefits of a treatment. In the statement, “one of the most commonly cited ethical qualms with clinical trials tends to be misinformation,” Kelly (2013) supports Washington (2008) about the voluntary and involuntary deception of subjects to participate in their studies. Generally, violation of ethics makes vulnerable subjects partake in medical or scientific studies that harm their health and those around them.

To reduce the susceptibility of patients or subjects to abusive medical and scientific studies, adherence or compliance to research ethics is essential. For instance, Kelly (2013) suggests that continuous investigation by ethics boards on researchers violating ethical requirements would enhance compliance with research regulations, integrity, and morals. The statement “informed consent is an ongoing process of patient notification and education” also implies that continuous patient advocacy, edification, and communication before treatments and clinical trials is essential in reducing non-compliance to research ethics (Washington, 2008). Moreover, when seeing patient permission for research inclusion, Washington (2008) proposes that researchers should make patients aware of treatment risks through the phrase “the scientist must […] knows all the known risks and must inform the subject proxy.” This will make subjects decide to participate in research after knowing the benefits and negative implications on them and the people around them.

Conclusively, the lack of compliance with ethical research principles among scientists and the economic issues of patients make them susceptible to abuse during studies. Unrealistic hope, desperation, and inappropriate patient advocacy and education make subjects vulnerable to research abuse. Based on these, developing, implementing, and complying with research ethics is a feasible approach to reducing the vulnerability of research subjects to abuse. Therefore, patient abuse is a systemic issue in medical and scientific studies. This means that this problem requires universal or systemic solutions to achieve the desired outcome of protecting patients’ interests and well-being during and after research.

Kelly, S. (2013). Testing drugs on the developing world . The Atlantic. Web.

Washington, H. (2008). Medical apartheid: The dark history of medical experimentation on Black Americans from colonial times to the present. Psychiatric Services , 58 (10), 1380-1381.

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Introduction & Top Questions

Introduction of moral codes

Problems of divine origin
Nonhuman behaviour
Kinship and reciprocity
Anthropology and ethics
The Middle East
Ancient Greece
The Epicureans
Ethics in the New Testament
St. Augustine
St. Thomas Aquinas and the Scholastics
Machiavelli
The first Protestants
Early intuitionists: Cudworth, More, and Clarke
Shaftesbury and the moral sense school
Butler on self-interest and conscience
The climax of moral sense theory: Hutcheson and Hume
The intuitionist response: Price and Reid
Moore and the naturalistic fallacy
Modern intuitionism
Existentialism
Universal prescriptivism
Moral realism
Kantian constructivism: a middle ground?
Irrealist views: projectivism and expressivism
Ethics and reasons for action
The debate over consequentialism
Varieties of consequentialism
Objections to consequentialism
An ethics of prima facie duties
Rawls’s theory of justice
Rights theories
Natural law ethics
Virtue ethics
Feminist ethics
Ethical egoism
Environmental ethics
War and peace
Abortion, euthanasia, and the value of human life

What is ethics?

How is ethics different from morality, why does ethics matter, is ethics a social science.

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Table Of Contents

The term ethics may refer to the philosophical study of the concepts of moral right and wrong and moral good and bad, to any philosophical theory of what is morally right and wrong or morally good and bad, and to any system or code of moral rules, principles, or values. The last may be associated with particular religions , cultures, professions, or virtually any other group that is at least partly characterized by its moral outlook.

Traditionally, ethics referred to the philosophical study of morality, the latter being a more or less systematic set of beliefs, usually held in common by a group, about how people should live. Ethics also referred to particular philosophical theories of morality. Later the term was applied to particular (and narrower) moral codes or value systems. Ethics and morality are now used almost interchangeably in many contexts, but the name of the philosophical study remains ethics .

Ethics matters because (1) it is part of how many groups define themselves and thus part of the identity of their individual members, (2) other-regarding values in most ethical systems both reflect and foster close human relationships and mutual respect and trust, and (3) it could be “rational” for a self-interested person to be moral, because his or her self-interest is arguably best served in the long run by reciprocating the moral behaviour of others.

No. Understood as equivalent to morality, ethics could be studied as a social-psychological or historical phenomenon, but in that case it would be an object of social-scientific study, not a social science in itself. Understood as the philosophical study of moral concepts, ethics is a branch of philosophy , not of social science.

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ethics , the discipline concerned with what is morally good and bad and morally right and wrong. The term is also applied to any system or theory of moral values or principles.

(Read Britannica’s biography of this author, Peter Singer.)

How should we live? Shall we aim at happiness or at knowledge, virtue , or the creation of beautiful objects? If we choose happiness, will it be our own or the happiness of all? And what of the more particular questions that face us: is it right to be dishonest in a good cause? Can we justify living in opulence while elsewhere in the world people are starving? Is going to war justified in cases where it is likely that innocent people will be killed? Is it wrong to clone a human being or to destroy human embryos in medical research? What are our obligations, if any, to the generations of humans who will come after us and to the nonhuman animals with whom we share the planet?

Ethics deals with such questions at all levels. Its subject consists of the fundamental issues of practical decision making , and its major concerns include the nature of ultimate value and the standards by which human actions can be judged right or wrong .

The terms ethics and morality are closely related. It is now common to refer to ethical judgments or to ethical principles where it once would have been more accurate to speak of moral judgments or moral principles. These applications are an extension of the meaning of ethics. In earlier usage, the term referred not to morality itself but to the field of study, or branch of inquiry, that has morality as its subject matter. In this sense, ethics is equivalent to moral philosophy .

Although ethics has always been viewed as a branch of philosophy, its all-embracing practical nature links it with many other areas of study, including anthropology , biology , economics , history , politics , sociology , and theology . Yet, ethics remains distinct from such disciplines because it is not a matter of factual knowledge in the way that the sciences and other branches of inquiry are. Rather, it has to do with determining the nature of normative theories and applying these sets of principles to practical moral problems.

This article, then, will deal with ethics as a field of philosophy, especially as it has developed in the West. For coverage of religious conceptions of ethics and the ethical systems associated with world religions, see Buddhism ; Christianity ; Confucianism ; Hinduism ; Jainism ; Judaism ; Sikhism .

The origins of ethics

Mythical accounts.

When did ethics begin and how did it originate? If one has in mind ethics proper—i.e., the systematic study of what is morally right and wrong—it is clear that ethics could have come into existence only when human beings started to reflect on the best way to live. This reflective stage emerged long after human societies had developed some kind of morality, usually in the form of customary standards of right and wrong conduct . The process of reflection tended to arise from such customs, even if in the end it may have found them wanting. Accordingly, ethics began with the introduction of the first moral codes .

Virtually every human society has some form of myth to explain the origin of morality. In the Louvre in Paris there is a black Babylonian column with a relief showing the sun god Shamash presenting the code of laws to Hammurabi (died c. 1750 bce ), known as the Code of Hammurabi . The Hebrew Bible ( Old Testament ) account of God’s giving the Ten Commandments to Moses (flourished 14th–13th century bce ) on Mount Sinai might be considered another example. In the dialogue Protagoras by Plato (428/427–348/347 bce ), there is an avowedly mythical account of how Zeus took pity on the hapless humans, who were physically no match for the other beasts. To make up for these deficiencies, Zeus gave humans a moral sense and the capacity for law and justice , so that they could live in larger communities and cooperate with one another.

That morality should be invested with all the mystery and power of divine origin is not surprising. Nothing else could provide such strong reasons for accepting the moral law. By attributing a divine origin to morality, the priesthood became its interpreter and guardian and thereby secured for itself a power that it would not readily relinquish. This link between morality and religion has been so firmly forged that it is still sometimes asserted that there can be no morality without religion. According to this view, ethics is not an independent field of study but rather a branch of theology ( see moral theology ).

There is some difficulty, already known to Plato, with the view that morality was created by a divine power. In his dialogue Euthyphro , Plato considered the suggestion that it is divine approval that makes an action good . Plato pointed out that, if this were the case, one could not say that the gods approve of such actions because they are good. Why then do they approve of them? Is their approval entirely arbitrary? Plato considered this impossible and so held that there must be some standards of right or wrong that are independent of the likes and dislikes of the gods. Modern philosophers have generally accepted Plato’s argument, because the alternative implies that if, for example, the gods had happened to approve of torturing children and to disapprove of helping one’s neighbours, then torture would have been good and neighbourliness bad.

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Methodology

Ethical Considerations in Research | Types & Examples

Ethical Considerations in Research | Types & Examples

Published on October 18, 2021 by Pritha Bhandari . Revised on May 9, 2024.

Ethical considerations in research are a set of principles that guide your research designs and practices. Scientists and researchers must always adhere to a certain code of conduct when collecting data from people.

The goals of human research often include understanding real-life phenomena, studying effective treatments, investigating behaviors, and improving lives in other ways. What you decide to research and how you conduct that research involve key ethical considerations.

These considerations work to

protect the rights of research participants
enhance research validity
maintain scientific or academic integrity

Why do research ethics matter, getting ethical approval for your study, types of ethical issues, voluntary participation, informed consent, confidentiality, potential for harm, results communication, examples of ethical failures, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about research ethics.

Research ethics matter for scientific integrity, human rights and dignity, and collaboration between science and society. These principles make sure that participation in studies is voluntary, informed, and safe for research subjects.

You’ll balance pursuing important research objectives with using ethical research methods and procedures. It’s always necessary to prevent permanent or excessive harm to participants, whether inadvertent or not.

Defying research ethics will also lower the credibility of your research because it’s hard for others to trust your data if your methods are morally questionable.

Even if a research idea is valuable to society, it doesn’t justify violating the human rights or dignity of your study participants.

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Before you start any study involving data collection with people, you’ll submit your research proposal to an institutional review board (IRB) .

An IRB is a committee that checks whether your research aims and research design are ethically acceptable and follow your institution’s code of conduct. They check that your research materials and procedures are up to code.

If successful, you’ll receive IRB approval, and you can begin collecting data according to the approved procedures. If you want to make any changes to your procedures or materials, you’ll need to submit a modification application to the IRB for approval.

If unsuccessful, you may be asked to re-submit with modifications or your research proposal may receive a rejection. To get IRB approval, it’s important to explicitly note how you’ll tackle each of the ethical issues that may arise in your study.

There are several ethical issues you should always pay attention to in your research design, and these issues can overlap with each other.

You’ll usually outline ways you’ll deal with each issue in your research proposal if you plan to collect data from participants.


Voluntary participation	Your participants are free to opt in or out of the study at any point in time.
Informed consent	Participants know the purpose, benefits, risks, and funding behind the study before they agree or decline to join.
Anonymity	You don’t know the identities of the participants. Personally identifiable data is not collected.
Confidentiality	You know who the participants are but you keep that information hidden from everyone else. You anonymize personally identifiable data so that it can’t be linked to other data by anyone else.
Potential for harm	Physical, social, psychological and all other types of harm are kept to an absolute minimum.
Results communication	You ensure your work is free of or research misconduct, and you accurately represent your results.

Voluntary participation means that all research subjects are free to choose to participate without any pressure or coercion.

All participants are able to withdraw from, or leave, the study at any point without feeling an obligation to continue. Your participants don’t need to provide a reason for leaving the study.

It’s important to make it clear to participants that there are no negative consequences or repercussions to their refusal to participate. After all, they’re taking the time to help you in the research process , so you should respect their decisions without trying to change their minds.

Voluntary participation is an ethical principle protected by international law and many scientific codes of conduct.

Take special care to ensure there’s no pressure on participants when you’re working with vulnerable groups of people who may find it hard to stop the study even when they want to.

Informed consent refers to a situation in which all potential participants receive and understand all the information they need to decide whether they want to participate. This includes information about the study’s benefits, risks, funding, and institutional approval.

You make sure to provide all potential participants with all the relevant information about

what the study is about
the risks and benefits of taking part
how long the study will take
your supervisor’s contact information and the institution’s approval number

Usually, you’ll provide participants with a text for them to read and ask them if they have any questions. If they agree to participate, they can sign or initial the consent form. Note that this may not be sufficient for informed consent when you work with particularly vulnerable groups of people.

If you’re collecting data from people with low literacy, make sure to verbally explain the consent form to them before they agree to participate.

For participants with very limited English proficiency, you should always translate the study materials or work with an interpreter so they have all the information in their first language.

In research with children, you’ll often need informed permission for their participation from their parents or guardians. Although children cannot give informed consent, it’s best to also ask for their assent (agreement) to participate, depending on their age and maturity level.

Anonymity means that you don’t know who the participants are and you can’t link any individual participant to their data.

You can only guarantee anonymity by not collecting any personally identifying information—for example, names, phone numbers, email addresses, IP addresses, physical characteristics, photos, and videos.

In many cases, it may be impossible to truly anonymize data collection . For example, data collected in person or by phone cannot be considered fully anonymous because some personal identifiers (demographic information or phone numbers) are impossible to hide.

You’ll also need to collect some identifying information if you give your participants the option to withdraw their data at a later stage.

Data pseudonymization is an alternative method where you replace identifying information about participants with pseudonymous, or fake, identifiers. The data can still be linked to participants but it’s harder to do so because you separate personal information from the study data.

Confidentiality means that you know who the participants are, but you remove all identifying information from your report.

All participants have a right to privacy, so you should protect their personal data for as long as you store or use it. Even when you can’t collect data anonymously, you should secure confidentiality whenever you can.

Some research designs aren’t conducive to confidentiality, but it’s important to make all attempts and inform participants of the risks involved.

As a researcher, you have to consider all possible sources of harm to participants. Harm can come in many different forms.

Psychological harm: Sensitive questions or tasks may trigger negative emotions such as shame or anxiety.
Social harm: Participation can involve social risks, public embarrassment, or stigma.
Physical harm: Pain or injury can result from the study procedures.
Legal harm: Reporting sensitive data could lead to legal risks or a breach of privacy.

It’s best to consider every possible source of harm in your study as well as concrete ways to mitigate them. Involve your supervisor to discuss steps for harm reduction.

Make sure to disclose all possible risks of harm to participants before the study to get informed consent. If there is a risk of harm, prepare to provide participants with resources or counseling or medical services if needed.

Some of these questions may bring up negative emotions, so you inform participants about the sensitive nature of the survey and assure them that their responses will be confidential.

The way you communicate your research results can sometimes involve ethical issues. Good science communication is honest, reliable, and credible. It’s best to make your results as transparent as possible.

Take steps to actively avoid plagiarism and research misconduct wherever possible.

Plagiarism means submitting others’ works as your own. Although it can be unintentional, copying someone else’s work without proper credit amounts to stealing. It’s an ethical problem in research communication because you may benefit by harming other researchers.

Self-plagiarism is when you republish or re-submit parts of your own papers or reports without properly citing your original work.

This is problematic because you may benefit from presenting your ideas as new and original even though they’ve already been published elsewhere in the past. You may also be infringing on your previous publisher’s copyright, violating an ethical code, or wasting time and resources by doing so.

In extreme cases of self-plagiarism, entire datasets or papers are sometimes duplicated. These are major ethical violations because they can skew research findings if taken as original data.

You notice that two published studies have similar characteristics even though they are from different years. Their sample sizes, locations, treatments, and results are highly similar, and the studies share one author in common.

Research misconduct

Research misconduct means making up or falsifying data, manipulating data analyses, or misrepresenting results in research reports. It’s a form of academic fraud.

These actions are committed intentionally and can have serious consequences; research misconduct is not a simple mistake or a point of disagreement about data analyses.

Research misconduct is a serious ethical issue because it can undermine academic integrity and institutional credibility. It leads to a waste of funding and resources that could have been used for alternative research.

Later investigations revealed that they fabricated and manipulated their data to show a nonexistent link between vaccines and autism. Wakefield also neglected to disclose important conflicts of interest, and his medical license was taken away.

This fraudulent work sparked vaccine hesitancy among parents and caregivers. The rate of MMR vaccinations in children fell sharply, and measles outbreaks became more common due to a lack of herd immunity.

Research scandals with ethical failures are littered throughout history, but some took place not that long ago.

Some scientists in positions of power have historically mistreated or even abused research participants to investigate research problems at any cost. These participants were prisoners, under their care, or otherwise trusted them to treat them with dignity.

To demonstrate the importance of research ethics, we’ll briefly review two research studies that violated human rights in modern history.

These experiments were inhumane and resulted in trauma, permanent disabilities, or death in many cases.

After some Nazi doctors were put on trial for their crimes, the Nuremberg Code of research ethics for human experimentation was developed in 1947 to establish a new standard for human experimentation in medical research.

In reality, the actual goal was to study the effects of the disease when left untreated, and the researchers never informed participants about their diagnoses or the research aims.

Although participants experienced severe health problems, including blindness and other complications, the researchers only pretended to provide medical care.

When treatment became possible in 1943, 11 years after the study began, none of the participants were offered it, despite their health conditions and high risk of death.

Ethical failures like these resulted in severe harm to participants, wasted resources, and lower trust in science and scientists. This is why all research institutions have strict ethical guidelines for performing research.

If you want to know more about statistics , methodology , or research bias , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Normal distribution
Measures of central tendency
Chi square tests
Confidence interval
Quartiles & Quantiles
Cluster sampling
Stratified sampling
Thematic analysis
Cohort study
Peer review
Ethnography

Research bias

Implicit bias
Cognitive bias
Conformity bias
Hawthorne effect
Availability heuristic
Attrition bias
Social desirability bias

Ethical considerations in research are a set of principles that guide your research designs and practices. These principles include voluntary participation, informed consent, anonymity, confidentiality, potential for harm, and results communication.

Scientists and researchers must always adhere to a certain code of conduct when collecting data from others .

These considerations protect the rights of research participants, enhance research validity , and maintain scientific integrity.

Anonymity means you don’t know who the participants are, while confidentiality means you know who they are but remove identifying information from your research report. Both are important ethical considerations .

You can keep data confidential by using aggregate information in your research report, so that you only refer to groups of participants rather than individuals.

These actions are committed intentionally and can have serious consequences; research misconduct is not a simple mistake or a point of disagreement but a serious ethical failure.

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170 Ethics Essay Topics

Ethics is the study of right and wrong in human conduct. “Ethics” comes from the Greek word “ethos,” meaning character. Ethics is a field of philosophy that studies the nature of morality and assesses human behavior in terms of what is good and what is wrong.

Essays on ethics are always controversial because people have different opinions about what is right and wrong. However, to write a well-reasoned and persuasive ethics essay, some basic principles should be followed.

Check out this guide detailing everything you need to know about how to write an ethics essay, including 170 ethics essay topics that will get you started.

What Style Should an Ethics Essay Be Written In?

The style of your essay should be formal and logical. You will need to make use of evidence to support your claims. However, you should avoid using emotive language or making personal attacks. Ultimately, your goal should be to present a well-reasoned argument supported by evidence and thoughtful analysis.

Outside of the context of essays, ethics is usually studied in the form of philosophical arguments. As such, your writing should use formal language and avoid taking sides in the debate. You should also aim to be as objective as possible in your analysis.

Typically the best writing styles for an ethics essay include argumentative, problem-solution, and cause and effect.

For students writing an argumentative ethics essay, it may be appropriate to use persuasive language in order to make a case. But, be careful not to get too caught up in trying to persuade your reader and lose sight of presenting a well-reasoned argument.

If you are writing a problem-solution ethics essay, your goal will be to identify an ethical problem and propose a solution. In this type of essay, it can be helpful to use emotional language to highlight the severity of the problem. However, you should still avoid making personal attacks and aim to present a balanced argument.

A cause and effect ethics essay will aim to identify the cause of a particular problem in the field of ethics and evaluate the effects that it has had. In this type of essay, you may find it helpful to use statistical data to support your claims.

Ethics Essay Writing Guide

No matter which type of essay you are writing for an ethics course, it is still necessary to include the following elements:

A strong thesis statement that expresses an opinion on the ethical issue at hand.
Supporting evidence for your thesis statement – statistics, expert comments, or real-life examples could be included.
A well-developed argument that analyzes the problem at hand using logical reasoning and critical thinking.
A conclusion that restates your thesis statement and provides food for thought for the reader.

Ethics essays will also need to follow a format that includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Your introduction should aim to grab the reader’s attention and give them an overview of the ethical issue you will be discussing. Be sure to include your thesis statement in your introduction.

The body paragraphs of your essay will be where you present your argument and support it with evidence. Each body paragraph should focus on a different point that supports your thesis statement.

Finally, your conclusion should summarize your argument and offer the reader final opinions on the ethical topic you addressed.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Ethics Essay Writing

While the need to communicate your point as clearly as possible may be overwhelming, when writing an ethics essay, there are several things you should do and avoid doing.

Do be clear in the point you want to make.

Many pupils struggle to express themselves clearly on the ethical topic at hand.

As a result, their essays lack concentration and goal. Make sure you understand your thesis statement and the arguments you wish to include in your essay before you begin writing.

Don’t make personal attacks.

When you are writing an ethics essay, it is important to maintain a level of professionalism. This means refraining from making personal attacks on either side of the issue. Not only is this unprofessional, but it will also make your essay less credible.

Do use evidence that many different sources can support.

When writing an ethics essay, you need to back up your claims with evidence. But, not all evidence is created equal. The best evidence to use is that which multiple sources can support. This could include statistics, expert opinions, or real-life examples.

Don’t use emotional language.

When you are writing an ethics essay, it is important to use language that is objective and free from emotion. This means avoiding words like “should” or “must.” Instead, focus on using language that presents the facts without trying to persuade the reader one way or another.

Do research the different sides of the issue.

When writing an ethics essay, it is essential to consider all sides of the issue. Unfortunately, many students make the mistake of only looking at one side of the argument and failing to consider the other. By doing your research, you will be able to see both sides of the issue and present a more well-rounded argument.

Don’t plagiarize.

This should go without saying, but it is important to ensure that all the sources you use in your essay are correctly cited. Plagiarism is a severe academic offense resulting in a failing grade or expulsion from school. So, be sure to give credit where credit is due.

Ethics Essay Topics About Politics

Should political parties be banned?
Should limits be placed on campaign spending?
Are there any circumstances in which it is ethically permissible to lie in politics?
Is it ever ethically permissible to break the law in politics?
What are the ethical implications of gerrymandering?
Should the voting age be lowered?
What are the ethical implications of voter ID laws?
Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
Is it ethically permissible to use public funds for private purposes?
Are there any circumstances in which it is ethically permissible to accept gifts from lobbyists?

Ethics Essay Topics About Business

Should businesses be required to disclose their political donations?
What are the ethical implications of price gouging?
Should businesses be required to provide employees with health insurance?
What are the ethical implications of using child labor?
Is it ethically permissible for businesses to discriminate based on race, gender, or sexual orientation?
What are the ethical implications of using sweatshops?
Should businesses be required to pay a living wage?
What are the ethical implications of huge corporations polluting the environment?
What are the ethical implications of animal testing by pharmaceutical businesses?
Is it ethically permissible for businesses to market unhealthy products?

Ethics Essay Topics About Technology

Should there be limits on the use of technology?
What are the ethical implications of government surveillance?
What are the ethical implications of cyber warfare?
What are the ethical implications of hacking?
What are the ethical implications of online piracy?
What are the ethical implications of using social media?
What are the ethical implications of using artificial intelligence?
What are the ethical implications of gene editing?
What are the ethical implications of biotechnology?
What are the ethical implications of nanotechnology?

Ethics Essay Topics About Religion

Should religious institutions be exempt from taxes?
What are the ethical implications of religious discrimination?
What are the ethical implications of religious violence?
What are the ethical implications of proselytizing?
What are the ethical implications of using religion to justify political decisions?
What are the ethical implications of using religion to justify war?
What are the ethical implications of using religion to justify discrimination?
What are the ethical implications of using religion to justify oppression?
What are the ethical implications of using religion to justify hatred?
How have the ethics of religious beliefs changed over time?

Ethics Essay Topics About Philosophy

What is the meaning of life?
What is the nature of reality?
What is the nature of consciousness?
What is the relationship between mind and body?
How should we live our lives?
What is the difference between right and wrong?
What is the difference between good and evil?
What are our obligations to others?
How should we treat animals?
Should we strive for happiness?

Ethics Essay Topics About The Environment

What are the ethical implications of how we treat the environment?
What are the ethical implications of climate change?
What are the ethical implications of deforestation?
What are the ethical implications of animal agriculture?
What are the ethical implications of water shortages?
What are the ethical implications of oil spills?
Compare and contrast the ethical implications of different approaches to environmentalism.
What are the ethical implications of our throwaway culture?
Are there ethical implications of using recycled materials?
What are the ethical implications of genetic engineering?

Ethics Essay Topics About War

Is war ever ethically permissible?
Discuss points in history where war was ethically justified to the masses.
Was the war in Iraq ethically justified?
Are drone strikes ethically justified?
How should we deal with terrorists?
Do ethics change in wartime?
How does propaganda play into ethical decisions about war?
Should governments be transparent about their activities during wartime?
Is fighting for your country still moral if you don’t believe in the cause?
How does post-traumatic stress disorder impair soldiers’ moral judgment?

Ethics Essay Topics About Family

What are the ethical implications of how we raise our children?
Should parents be allowed to genetically engineer their children?
What are the ethical implications of surrogacy?
What are the ethical implications of abortion?
What are the ethical implications of adoption?
How should we deal with unwanted pregnancies?
Is it ethical to have more than one child?
What are the ethical implications of overpopulation?
What are the ethical implications of sex education?
What are the ethical implications of using technology in the home?

Ethics Essay Topics About Emotions

What are the ethical implications of how we express our emotions?
Is it ever ethically permissible to lie to children?
Is it ever ethically permissible to cheat?
Should we always tell the truth?
How should we deal with anger?
How should we deal with jealousy?
How should we deal with sadness when others don’t share the same views?
How should we deal with fear?
How should we deal with love when it is one-sided?
Ethically, is it better to keep emotions in or let them out?

Ethics Essay Topics About Famous Philosophers

Compare and contrast the ethical viewpoints of two different philosophers.
How has the work of a philosopher influenced your ethical views?
What are the strengths and weaknesses of a philosopher’s ethical arguments?
Do you agree or disagree with a philosopher’s view on ethics? Why?
What would be a counterargument to a philosopher’s ethical position?
What are the most important takeaways from a philosopher’s work on ethics?
Are all philosophers ethically consistent in their arguments?
How has your reading of a philosopher’s work changed your view on ethics?
What criticisms can you level at a philosopher’s ethical views?
Do all philosophers’ ethical views have value? Why or why not?
What are the ethical implications of a philosopher’s work?

Ethics Essay Topics About History

Pick a massacre in history and discuss the ethical logistics that led up to it.
Research a historical event and discuss how the victors wrote history with their own ethical biases.
Was it ethical for Christopher Columbus to sail to the Americas?
Was it ethical for the Europeans to colonize the Americas?
Was it ethical for the slave trade to exist?
Was it ethical for the United States to annex Hawaii?
Was it ethical for the United States to bomb Hiroshima and Nagasaki?
Research a genocidal event in history and discuss the flawed ethics that caused it.
How have ethics changed since the beginning of human civilization?
Have ethical values always been the same, or have they changed over time?
Is there a universal morality, or is morality culturally dependent?
Discuss the following quote: “Those who are unable to recall the past are doomed to repeat it.”
How have ethics been used throughout history to justify atrocities?
How can studying history help us make better ethical decisions in the present?
What lessons can we learn from history about making ethical choices?
What are some of the most unethical events in history?
How can we learn from history to ensure that we don’t repeat unethical choices?
What are some of the most ethical events in history?

Ethics Essay Topics About Science

Are there scientific frontiers that we should avoid for ethical reasons?
How has a lack of ethics during certain periods in history led to advances in science?
How have ethical considerations held back scientific progress?
Is it ethical to use animals in scientific experimentation?
Is it ethical to use humans in scientific experimentation?
How should we deal with the disposal of hazardous waste?
Is it ethical to freeze embryos for future use?

Ethics Essay Topics About Education

Is the way ethics is taught in schools effective?
How could the way ethics is taught in schools be improved?
What are some of the most common ethical problems that students face?
How can we make sure that students learn about ethics?
What are some of the most important things students should learn about ethics?
What are some of the most common ethical dilemmas that teachers face?
How can we make sure that teachers are teaching ethics effectively?
What are some of the most important things teachers should teach about ethics?

Ethics Essay Topics About Medicine

Is it ethical to require vaccine mandates?
Is it ethical to ration health care?
Is it ethical to withhold medical treatment from prisoners?
Is it ethical to use placebos in clinical trials?
Is it ethical to use human organs for transplantation?
Should physicians be allowed to refuse to treat patients on religious grounds?
Should physician-assisted suicide be legal?
Is it ethical to use stem cells from embryos in research?
Is it ethical to use genetic engineering to create “designer babies”?
Is there such a thing as an “ethical” abortion?
Is it ever ethically permissible to end a life when the person is suffering from a terminal illness?
Is it ever ethically permissible to end a life when the person is in a vegetative state?
Explain how physicians maintain their codes of ethics in the face of difficult decisions.
What are some of the most common ethical issues that physicians face?
How can we make sure that physicians uphold their ethical codes?

Ethics Essay Topics About Honor

Are ethics and honor the same idea?
How have ethical considerations affected the way we think about honor?
Is it ever ethical to lie for the sake of honor?
Is it ever ethical to cheat for the sake of honor?
Is it ever ethical to steal for the sake of honor?
Is it ever ethical to kill for the sake of honor?
Discuss a famous person considered honorable but proven to have made ethically questionable choices.
Is honor more important than ethics?
How can we make sure that people uphold their codes of honor?

Ethics Essay Topics About Social Issues

Is it ethical to ban breastfeeding in public?
Is male circumcision ethical?
Is female circumcision ethical?
Is it ethical to require people to obtain a license to have children?
Should there be limits on the number of children people can have?
Is it ethical to sell organs on the black market?
How should we deal with illegal immigration?
Is it ethical to produce and sell tobacco products?
Is it ethical to produce and sell alcohol products?
Should the drinking age be raised?
Is affirmative action ethical?

With the essential writing tips above, you can use any of these 170 ethics essay topics to create a well-written and well-argued essay.

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Writing a persuasive essay requires identifying interesting ethical topics, and these options might inspire you to create a powerful and engaging essay, position paper , or speech for your next assignment.

Should Teens Have Plastic Surgery?

Good looks are highly prized in society. You can see advertisements everywhere urging you to buy products that will supposedly enhance your appearance. While many products are topical, plastic surgery is probably the ultimate game-changer. Going under the knife to enhance your looks can be a quick fix and help you achieve the look you desire. It also carries risks and can have lifelong consequences. Consider whether you think teens—who are still developing into mature individuals—should have the right to make such a big decision at such a young age, or if their parents should be able to decide for them.

Would You Tell If You Saw a Popular Kid Bullying?

Bullying is a big problem in schools and even in society in general. But it can be difficult to show courage, step up—and step in—if you see a popular kid bullying someone at school. Would you report it if you saw this happening? Why or why not?

Would You Speak Up If Your Friend Abused an Animal?

Animal abuse by youngsters can foreshadow more violent acts as these individuals grow up. Speaking up might save the animal pain and suffering today, and it might steer that person away from more violent acts in the future. But would you have the courage to do so? Why or why not?

Would You Tell If You Saw a Friend Cheating on a Test?

Courage can come in subtle forms, and that can include reporting seeing someone cheat on a test. Cheating on a test might not seem like such a big deal; perhaps you've cheated on a test yourself. But it is against the policies of schools and universities worldwide. If you saw someone cheating, would you speak up and tell the teacher? What if it were your buddy cheating and telling might cost you a friendship? Explain your stance.

Should News Stories Slant Toward What People Want to Hear?

There is much debate over whether the news should be unbiased or allow commentary. Newspapers, radios, and news television stations are businesses, just as much as a grocery store or online retailers. They need customers to survive, and that means appealing to what their customers want to hear or see. Slanting reports toward popular opinions could increase ratings and readership, in turn saving newspapers and news shows, as well as jobs. But is this practice ethical? What do you think?

Would You Tell If Your Best Friend Had a Drink at the Prom?

Most schools have strict rules about drinking at the prom, but many students still engage in the practice. After all, they'll be graduating soon. If you saw a friend imbibing, would you tell or look the other way? Why?

Should Football Coaches Be Paid More Than Professors?

Football often brings in more money than any other single activity or program a school offers, including academic classes. In the corporate world, if a business is profitable, the CEO and those who contributed to the success are often rewarded handsomely. With that in mind, shouldn't it be the same in academia? Should top football coaches get paid more than top professors? Why or why not?

Should Politics and Church Be Separate?

Candidates often invoke religion when they're campaigning. It's generally a good way to attract votes. But should the practice be discouraged? The U.S. Constitution, after all, dictates that there should be a separation of church and state in this country. What do you think and why?

Would You Speak Up If You Heard an Ugly Ethnic Statement at a Party Filled With Popular Kids?

As in the previous examples, it can be hard to speak up, especially when an incident involves popular kids. Would you have the courage to say something and risk the ire of the "in" crowd? Who would you tell?

Should Assisted Suicides Be Allowed for Terminally Ill Patients?

Some countries, like the Netherlands, allow assisted suicides , as do some U.S. states. Should "mercy killing" be legal for terminally ill patients who are suffering from great physical pain? What about patients whose diseases will negatively impact their families? Why or why not?

Should a Student's Ethnicity Be a Consideration for College Acceptance?

There has been a long-standing debate about the role ethnicity should play in college acceptance. Proponents of affirmative action argue that underrepresented groups should be given a leg up. Opponents say that all college candidates should be judged on their merits alone. What do you think and why?

Should Companies Gather Information About Their Customers?

Information privacy is a big and growing issue. Every time you log onto the internet and visit an online retailer, news company, or social media site, companies gather information about you. Should they have the right to do so, or should the practice be banned? Why do you think so? Explain your answer.

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Home — Essay Samples — Philosophy — Ethics and Moral Philosophy — Ethical Dilemma

Ethical Dilemma Essays

Understanding how to write an ethical dilemma essay.

If you're tasked with writing an ethical dilemma essay, it's essential to start with a clear understanding of the topic. Here are some prompt samples to help you grasp the key aspects:

Prompt 1: Analyze a personal ethical dilemma you have faced and the decision-making process involved.
Prompt 2: Discuss an ethical dilemma in a real-world professional setting and propose a solution.
Prompt 3: Explore the ethical dilemmas surrounding advancements in technology and their impact on society.
Prompt 4: Investigate the moral conflicts arising from environmental conservation efforts and economic development.

Brainstorming and Choosing a Compelling Essay Topic

Now that you have some prompts to work with, it's time to brainstorm and select a captivating essay topic. Consider the following points:

Personal Experience: Reflect on personal ethical dilemmas you've encountered, as they can provide unique insights.
Relevance: Ensure your topic is relevant to the prompt and highlights the complexity of ethical decision-making.
Moral Ambiguity: Choose a topic that involves conflicting values or principles, making the dilemma truly ethical.
Contemporary Issues: Explore current events or situations where ethical choices play a crucial role.

Unique Ethical Dilemma Essay Topics

Here's a list of unique essay topics that go beyond the ordinary:

The Ethical Dilemma of Artificial Intelligence in Autonomous Vehicles
Ethical Decision-Making in Healthcare: The Case of Allocating Limited Resources During a Pandemic
The Moral Implications of Genetic Editing and Designer Babies
Corporate Responsibility: Balancing Profit and Ethical Practices in the Pharmaceutical Industry
Environmental Ethics: The Conflict Between Conservation and Indigenous Rights
The Ethical Challenges of Privacy and Surveillance in the Digital Age
The Use of Torture in Interrogation: An Examination of the Ticking Time Bomb Scenario
Ethical Dilemmas in Journalism: Reporting on Sensitive Subjects and the Public's Right to Know
Animal Testing in Scientific Research: Balancing Scientific Advancement and Animal Welfare
The Ethical Considerations of Assisted Suicide and End-of-Life Care
Police Use of Force: Balancing Public Safety and Individual Rights
Environmental Conservation vs. Economic Development: The Case of Deforestation
AI and Employment: The Ethical Dilemma of Automation and Job Displacement
The Ethics of Human Cloning and Its Potential Consequences
Refugee Crisis: Ethical Obligations and National Sovereignty
Ethical Challenges in Artificial Intelligence Research: Bias and Fairness
Food Industry Ethics: The Dilemma of Factory Farming and Sustainable Alternatives
Medical Trials in Developing Countries: Balancing Scientific Progress and Informed Consent
The Ethical Implications of Space Exploration and Colonization
Ethics of AI-Powered Deepfake Technology: Implications for Privacy and Misinformation

Paragraph and Phrase Inspiration

When crafting your essay, here are some sample paragraphs and phrases that can inspire your writing:

Introduction: "Ethical dilemmas are the moral crossroads where our values and principles clash with real-life decisions."
Main Body: "In the case of AI in autonomous vehicles, the ethical dilemma centers around the choice between prioritizing passenger safety or minimizing harm to pedestrians."
Counterargument: "While some argue that sacrificing individual privacy for national security is justified, it's crucial to consider the potential abuses and erosion of civil liberties."
Conclusion: "In conclusion, ethical dilemmas are not mere theoretical exercises; they shape our society and define our values. By examining these complex issues, we can strive for a more ethical and compassionate world."

Now that you have these tips and unique ideas in mind, go ahead and write an engaging ethical dilemma essay that leaves a lasting impact. Dive deep into the complexities of moral choices and spark thoughtful discussions.

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An ethical dilemma refers to a situation or scenario in which an individual or group is faced with a complex decision that involves conflicting moral principles or values. It is a challenging predicament where there is no clear-cut right or wrong choice, and the decision-maker must carefully navigate the moral and ethical implications of their actions.

Personal Ethical Dilemmas: These arise when an individual faces conflicting moral values or principles in their personal life. For example, choosing between honesty and protecting a loved one's reputation. Professional Ethical Dilemmas: These occur in the workplace and involve conflicts between ethical responsibilities and professional obligations. For instance, deciding whether to blow the whistle on unethical practices that may harm others but jeopardize one's career. Societal Ethical Dilemmas: These pertain to broader societal issues and involve conflicting values or interests. Examples include debates on topics like euthanasia, abortion, or genetic engineering, where different ethical perspectives clash. Organizational Ethical Dilemmas: These dilemmas arise within organizations when employees face conflicting values or ethical standards. For instance, deciding between loyalty to the company and reporting unethical behavior by a colleague. Technological Ethical Dilemmas: With advancements in technology, ethical dilemmas have emerged, such as privacy concerns, AI ethics, or the impact of automation on employment.

Conflict of Values: Ethical dilemmas arise when individuals encounter conflicting values or principles, where there is no clear right or wrong answer. These conflicting values create a sense of moral uncertainty. Difficult Decision-Making: Ethical dilemmas require individuals to make difficult choices between competing options, each with their own ethical implications. The decision-making process involves weighing the potential consequences and considering the moral implications of each choice. No Perfect Solution: Ethical dilemmas often lack a perfect or ideal solution that satisfies all ethical considerations. Regardless of the decision made, there may be negative consequences or ethical trade-offs involved. Personal and Moral Significance: Ethical dilemmas are deeply personal and have significant moral implications for the individuals involved. They often challenge personal integrity and moral values, making the decision emotionally and morally burdensome. Ethical Reasoning: Resolving ethical dilemmas requires careful ethical reasoning, analysis, and consideration of different ethical theories or frameworks. It involves examining the principles, values, and potential consequences involved in order to make an informed and morally justifiable decision. Contextual Nature: Ethical dilemmas are influenced by the specific context in which they occur. Factors such as cultural norms, social expectations, legal considerations, and professional codes of conduct can further complicate the decision-making process.

Utilitarianism: Utilitarianism asserts that the ethical choice is the one that maximizes overall happiness or utility for the greatest number of people. When faced with an ethical dilemma, individuals utilizing this theory would weigh the potential consequences of each option and choose the one that leads to the greatest net benefit. Deontological Ethics: Deontological ethics focuses on adhering to moral duties and principles regardless of the outcomes. This approach emphasizes the inherent rightness or wrongness of actions rather than the consequences. Individuals using deontological reasoning would consider universal moral principles, such as honesty or respect for autonomy, when making ethical decisions. Virtue Ethics: Virtue ethics centers on the development of moral character and emphasizes the importance of virtuous traits and intentions in ethical decision-making. When faced with an ethical dilemma, individuals using this theory would consider which action aligns with virtuous qualities, such as honesty, compassion, or justice.

Film: In the movie "12 Angry Men," a jury must decide the fate of a young man accused of murder. Jurors face an ethical dilemma as they confront their biases, prejudices, and the weight of the evidence, ultimately questioning their responsibility to deliver a just verdict. Literature: In the novel "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee, the character Atticus Finch faces an ethical dilemma when defending an innocent black man accused of rape in a racially divided society. He confronts the moral choice between upholding justice and challenging deeply ingrained prejudices. Television: The series "The Good Place" revolves around ethical dilemmas and moral philosophy. Characters navigate complex ethical situations as they question the nature of good and bad, exploring themes such as utilitarianism, deontology, and moral relativism.

The topic of ethical dilemmas is crucial to explore and discuss in essays due to its profound impact on individuals, societies, and decision-making processes. Ethical dilemmas present complex situations where individuals face conflicting moral choices, and examining them allows for a deeper understanding of ethical principles, values, and the complexities of human behavior. Writing an essay on ethical dilemmas offers several benefits. Firstly, it encourages critical thinking and ethical reasoning by presenting real or hypothetical scenarios that challenge one's moral compass. It prompts individuals to analyze different perspectives, weigh the consequences of actions, and navigate moral gray areas. Secondly, exploring ethical dilemmas fosters ethical awareness and character development. By examining these dilemmas, individuals gain insights into their own values, biases, and decision-making processes. It promotes self-reflection and the cultivation of moral virtues such as empathy, integrity, and responsibility. Lastly, the topic of ethical dilemmas is relevant to various fields, including medicine, business, law, and technology. Essays on this subject provide an opportunity to explore how ethical frameworks and principles can guide professionals in making ethically sound decisions within their respective domains.

1. Beauchamp, T. L., & Bowie, N. E. (2020). Ethical theory and business (10th ed.). Pearson. 2. Bredeson, D. (2017). Ethical dilemmas and decisions in criminal justice (10th ed.). Cengage Learning. 3. Davis, M. (2016). Ethics and the university. Routledge. 4. Kidder, R. M. (2005). How good people make tough choices: Resolving the dilemmas of ethical living. Harper Perennial. 5. Lo, B., & Field, M. J. (Eds.). (2009). Conflict of interest in medical research, education, and practice. National Academies Press. 6. May, L., & Vandekerckhove, W. (Eds.). (2019). Routledge handbook of whistleblowing studies. Routledge. 7. Resnik, D. B. (2015). Playing politics with science: Balancing scientific independence and government oversight. Oxford University Press. 8. Singer, P. (2015). Ethics in the real world: 82 brief essays on things that matter. Princeton University Press. 9. Treviño, L. K., & Nelson, K. A. (2020). Managing business ethics: Straight talk about how to do it right (8th ed.). John Wiley & Sons. 10. Velasquez, M. (2018). Business ethics: Concepts and cases. Pearson.

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Beyond the Horizon: Exploring Ethics in “The Island”

This essay about Michael Bay’s “The Island” explores the ethical dilemmas posed by human cloning in a futuristic setting. It examines how the film challenges viewers to confront the moral implications of scientific advancement, focusing on themes of identity, autonomy, and societal ethics. Through dynamic storytelling and visual contrasts, the narrative follows protagonists Lincoln Six Echo and Jordan Two Delta as they uncover the truth about their existence and defy a system that commodifies human life. “The Island” prompts reflection on the ethical responsibilities of technology and the consequences of manipulating life for utilitarian ends, urging audiences to consider the ethical frontiers of scientific progress in an increasingly complex world.

How it works

In the tapestry of science fiction, Michael Bay’s 2005 film “The Island” emerges as a profound exploration of moral dilemmas in an era of rapid technological advancement. Set in a future where scientific progress has paved the way for human cloning, the narrative centers on Lincoln Six Echo (Ewan McGregor) and Jordan Two Delta (Scarlett Johansson), clones who unravel the truth about their existence and embark on a journey to reclaim their autonomy.

At its core, “The Island” serves as a compelling examination of ethical boundaries in biotechnology and the consequences of manipulating life for utilitarian purposes.

The film portrays a society where clones are bred solely for organ harvesting, kept ignorant of their true identities and purposes. This premise invites reflection on the ethical implications of scientific innovation and the ethical responsibilities that accompany technological progress.

Michael Bay’s directorial approach infuses the narrative with a dynamic blend of high-stakes action and introspective moments. The film’s kinetic energy propels the protagonists through thrilling sequences while prompting deeper contemplation of the moral quandaries faced by individuals ensnared in a system that commodifies their existence. Through visually striking cinematography and immersive storytelling, Bay challenges viewers to confront the ethical complexities of scientific advancement and the moral imperatives that govern human experimentation.

Central to “The Island” is the protagonists’ journey of self-discovery and rebellion against institutional control. As Lincoln and Jordan uncover the truth about their origins and struggle to break free from their predetermined fate, their narrative arc becomes a poignant allegory for personal autonomy and the search for authentic identity in a world driven by manipulation and deceit. Their evolution from passive acceptance to active resistance underscores the film’s thematic exploration of human agency, freedom, and the ethical responsibilities inherent in scientific exploration.

Thematically, “The Island” resonates with contemporary anxieties about the ethical implications of biotechnological progress. By depicting a future where scientific innovation has outpaced ethical considerations, the film prompts viewers to reflect on the potential consequences of treating human life as a commodity and the moral obligations of scientists and policymakers in safeguarding human dignity amidst technological advancement.

Beyond its thematic depth, “The Island” captivates with its meticulous world-building and visual design. The stark contrast between the clinical confines of the cloning facility and the idyllic beauty of the uninhabited island underscores the dichotomy between artificiality and authenticity. This visual juxtaposition not only enriches the film’s dystopian atmosphere but also serves as a metaphor for the characters’ quest for truth and liberation amidst a society dominated by deception and control.

In conclusion, “The Island” stands as a poignant exploration of ethical dilemmas within the realm of science fiction cinema. Through its compelling narrative and evocative visuals, Michael Bay invites audiences to critically engage with the ethical implications of biotechnological advancement and the moral imperatives guiding scientific innovation. By interweaving themes of identity, autonomy, and societal ethics, “The Island” encourages viewers to contemplate profound questions about human dignity and the ethical responsibilities inherent in the pursuit of knowledge and progress.

Ultimately, “The Island” serves as a powerful reminder of the ethical frontiers that humanity must navigate in an age defined by rapid technological change. It challenges us to consider the ethical implications of our actions and the imperative of upholding moral integrity in the pursuit of scientific discovery and societal advancement.

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Beyond the Horizon: Exploring Ethics in "The Island"
This essay about Michael Bay's "The Island" explores the ethical dilemmas posed by human cloning in a futuristic setting. It examines how the film challenges viewers to confront the moral implications of scientific advancement, focusing on themes of identity, autonomy, and societal ethics.