Journal # 4: The iPod Dilemma

June 13, 2012

            We started the class with an ethical dilemma regarding an iPod that was left inside a classroom.  This dilemma really got me thinking whether if I was in the position, what will I really do?  It is easy to say that I will give it back to the owner, but in reality, I am sure that the Devil will make a way in tempting me to steal it.  However, come to think of it, I realized that my parents brought me up well by establishing good ethical values, particularly the value of integrity.  If I was in that position, I will most probably look the owner of the iPod by asking the people around.  I am positively sure that whoever left it will find come back for it.  Honestly, I would not surrender it to the Discipline Officer because there is a chance that the student who left it might get an offense.  But, I will absolutely make sure that the iPod will get back to its real owner because I, myself, know how horrible it feels to lose something expensive. 

            Once we graduate and enter the real world, there is a very big possibility that we can lose something more significant or something that is extremely valuable for a company that we are in.  There can also be times wherein we will find information that can be an advantage for our company, but at the same time, it can ruin the reputation of another company.  With that, we must know how to weigh the consequences of our actions at all times, no matter how big or small it is because it can greatly affect our future.  We tend to be blinded by our own wants and needs.  Thus, we must always keep in mind that our decision in life also has an effect on other people and so, we need to be sensitive and considerate at all times. 

            In connection to our COSORES class, making an ethical decision includes determining the facts, identifying the ethical issues involved, identifying the stakeholders involved and consider the situation in their point of view, consider the available alternatives, consider how a decision affects the stakeholders, make a decision, and monitor and learn from the outcomes.  By looking at this process makes everyone think that it is only applicable to businesses, however, this is also valid in making everyday decisions in life.  One must always think about how a decision affects the people around us.  I believe that upon making a decision, one must look at it at a utilitarian perspective and think about the common good for the society.  Thus, as I live my life, I see to it that my family, friends, and colleagues are not negatively affected by my actions.