Appendix

 5 methods for writing an essay

1. The Historical/Contextual Analysis Method

Explore how an ethical dilemma has been viewed or handled across different times, cultures, or legal frameworks.

• • Introduce the dilemma and why it’s ethically significant.
  • Provide historical or cultural context (e.g., how attitudes have evolved).
  • Examine how different societies or eras addressed the issue.
  • Analyze shifts in ethical reasoning or societal values over time.
  • Reflect on what this evolution says about the dilemma today.

Example: The ethics of capital punishment — analyze its justification in ancient societies vs. modern democracies, and how changing moral standards influence current debates.

2. The Case Study Method

Present a real or hypothetical situation involving an ethical dilemma.

• • Introduce the case with background and relevant context.
  • Identify the ethical issue(s) at stake.
  • Analyze possible courses of action.
  • Evaluate outcomes using ethical theories (e.g., utilitarianism, deontology).
  • Conclude with your reasoned stance.

Example: A nurse must decide whether to break patient confidentiality to prevent harm—analyze from different moral viewpoints.

3. The Compare-and-Contrast Approach

Examine two or more responses to an ethical dilemma, highlighting differences in reasoning.

• • Describe the dilemma.
  • Present opposing viewpoints or decisions.
  • Discuss the ethical foundations behind each (e.g., justice vs. care ethics).
  • Evaluate which approach you believe is more ethically sound and why.

Example: Comparing whistleblowing vs. staying silent in corporate fraud situations.

4. Theory-Driven Method

Center your essay on a specific ethical theory and apply it to the dilemma.

• • Introduce the theory (e.g., Kantian ethics, virtue ethics).
  • Explain key principles.
  • Apply the theory step-by-step to the dilemma.
  • Discuss how the theory resolves or complicates the issue.

Example: Use Kant’s categorical imperative to decide whether lying to protect someone is ever justified.

5. Problem-Solution Structure

Treat the dilemma like a problem that needs solving with evidence-based reasoning.

• • Define the ethical problem clearly.
  • Identify causes and stakeholders.
  • Propose multiple possible solutions.
  • Weigh pros and cons of each.
  • Recommend the most ethical course of action and justify it.

Example: Addressing algorithmic bias in AI hiring systems—propose practical steps with ethical reasoning.