Read/review the following resources for this activity:
Textbook
Title: The Elements of Moral Philosophy Authors: James Rachels, Stuart Rachels Publisher: Mcgraw-Hill Education : Chapter 1, 2
Propose a scenario where you or someone you know are confronted with a moral dilemma relating to cultural diversity and multiculturalism. It cannot be the same as what was covered in the week one discussion.
Cultural diversity refers to religious, sexual, racial, and other forms of social difference. A moral dilemma is a situation in which one must make a decision between two or more options such that the options involve seemingly ethical and/or unethical conduct. Address the following questions:
What was the situation? What did the dilemma involve?
What would a subjective moral relativist say is the right approach to the dilemma? Why would that kind of relativist say that?
What would a cultural relativist say is the right approach to the dilemma? Why would that kind of relativist say that? Is that approach correct?
What did you or the person confronting the dilemma decide to do? What moral justification did you or they give? Is that approach morally correct?
Was there an objective moral truth (the objectively right thing to do) in this situation? Why or why not?
Moral Dilemma Scenario: Cultural Diversity in the Workplace
Situation and Dilemma
In a workplace setting, a team consisting of individuals from different cultural backgrounds is collaborating on a project. During a brainstorming session, a heated discussion ensues when it comes to decision-making processes. Some team members advocate for a consensus-based approach, emphasizing the importance of collective decision-making as per their cultural values. Others argue for a more hierarchical decision-making style, citing efficiency and clear leadership as crucial elements in achieving success.
Subjective Moral Relativist Perspective
A subjective moral relativist would argue that the right approach to this dilemma depends entirely on the individual's personal beliefs and values. They would assert that each team member should follow their own moral compass and cultural norms when deciding on the appropriate decision-making process. This relativist perspective is based on the idea that morality is subjective and varies from person to person.
Cultural Relativist Perspective
A cultural relativist, on the other hand, would suggest that the right approach to the dilemma is to respect and adapt to the cultural norms and values of each team member. They would emphasize the importance of understanding and valuing diversity in decision-making styles based on the cultural backgrounds of the individuals involved. This perspective asserts that what is morally right is determined by the cultural context in which it occurs.
Decision and Moral Justification
In this scenario, after a thorough discussion and consideration of each team member's perspective, a consensus was reached to implement a hybrid decision-making process that integrates aspects of both consensus-based and hierarchical approaches. The team decided that this approach would allow for collaboration while also maintaining efficiency and clarity in leadership roles. The moral justification given was that by respecting and incorporating diverse cultural values, they could create a more inclusive and effective working environment.
Objective Moral Truth
In this situation, the concept of an objective moral truth can be debated. While some may argue that there is an objectively right decision-making process that should be followed universally, others would contend that morality is inherently subjective and context-dependent. The team's decision to adopt a hybrid approach can be seen as a pragmatic solution that respects cultural diversity while aiming for effectiveness in achieving common goals.
In conclusion,
navigating moral dilemmas related to cultural diversity and multiculturalism requires a nuanced understanding of different ethical perspectives and values. By promoting open dialogue, respecting varying viewpoints, and seeking common ground, individuals can work towards ethical decision-making processes that honor cultural diversity while striving for collective success.