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

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An ethics essay is a type of academic writing that explores ethical issues and dilemmas. Students should evaluates them in terms of moral principles and values. The purpose of an ethics essay is to examine the moral implications of a particular issue, and provide a reasoned argument in support of an ethical perspective.

Writing an essay about ethics is a tough task for most students. The process involves creating an outline to guide your arguments about a topic and planning your ideas to convince the reader of your feelings about a difficult issue. If you still need assistance putting together your thoughts in composing a good paper, you have come to the right place. We have provided a series of steps and tips to show how you can achieve success in writing. This guide will tell you how to write an ethics paper using ethical essay examples to understand every step it takes to be proficient. In case you don’t have time for writing, get in touch with our professional essay writers for hire . Our experts work hard to supply students with excellent essays.

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An ethics essay uses moral theories to build arguments on an issue. You describe a controversial problem and examine it to determine how it affects individuals or society. Ethics papers analyze arguments on both sides of a possible dilemma, focusing on right and wrong. The analysis gained can be used to solve real-life cases. Before embarking on writing an ethical essay, keep in mind that most individuals follow moral principles. From a social context perspective, these rules define how a human behaves or acts towards another. Therefore, your theme essay on ethics needs to demonstrate how a person feels about these moral principles. More specifically, your task is to show how significant that issue is and discuss if you value or discredit it.

The primary purpose of an ethics essay is to initiate an argument on a moral issue using reasoning and critical evidence. Instead of providing general information about a problem, you present solid arguments about how you view the moral concern and how it affects you or society. When writing an ethical paper, you demonstrate philosophical competence, using appropriate moral perspectives and principles.

Before you start to write ethics essays, consider a topic you can easily address. In most cases, an ethical issues essay analyzes right and wrong. This includes discussing ethics and morals and how they contribute to the right behaviors. You can also talk about work ethic, code of conduct, and how employees promote or disregard the need for change. However, you can explore other areas by asking yourself what ethics mean to you. Think about how a recent game you watched with friends started a controversial argument. Or maybe a newspaper that highlighted a story you felt was misunderstood or blown out of proportion. This way, you can come up with an excellent topic that resonates with your personal ethics and beliefs.

Sometimes, you will be asked to submit an outline before writing an ethics paper. Creating an outline for an ethics paper is an essential step in creating a good essay. You can use it to arrange your points and supporting evidence before writing. It also helps organize your thoughts, enabling you to fill any gaps in your ideas. The outline for an essay should contain short and numbered sentences to cover the format and outline. Each section is structured to enable you to plan your work and include all sources in writing an ethics paper. An ethics essay outline is as follows:

Using this outline will improve clarity and focus throughout your writing process.

Ethics essays are similar to other essays based on their format, outline, and structure. An ethical essay should have a well-defined introduction, body, and conclusion section as its structure. When planning your ideas, make sure that the introduction and conclusion are around 20 percent of the paper, leaving the rest to the body. We will take a detailed look at what each part entails and give examples that are going to help you understand them better.  Refer to our essay structure examples to find a fitting way of organizing your writing.

An ethics essay introduction gives a synopsis of your main argument. One step on how to write an introduction for an ethics paper is telling about the topic and describing its background information. This paragraph should be brief and straight to the point. It informs readers what your position is on that issue. Start with an essay hook to generate interest from your audience. It can be a question you will address or a misunderstanding that leads up to your main argument. You can also add more perspectives to be discussed; this will inform readers on what to expect in the paper.

You can find many ethics essay introduction examples on the internet. In this guide, we have written an excellent extract to demonstrate how it should be structured. As you read, examine how it begins with a hook and then provides background information on an issue. 

In this example, the first sentence of the introduction makes a claim or uses a question to hook the reader.

An ethics paper must contain a thesis statement in the first paragraph. Learning how to write a thesis statement for an ethics paper is necessary as readers often look at it to gauge whether the essay is worth their time.

When you deviate away from the thesis, your whole paper loses meaning. In ethics essays, your thesis statement is a roadmap in writing, stressing your position on the problem and giving reasons for taking that stance. It should focus on a specific element of the issue being discussed. When writing a thesis statement, ensure that you can easily make arguments for or against its stance.

Look at this example of an ethics paper thesis statement and examine how well it has been written to state a position and provide reasons for doing so:

The above thesis statement example is clear and concise, indicating that this paper will highlight the effects of dishonesty in society. Moreover, it focuses on aspects of personal and professional relationships.

The body section is the heart of an ethics paper as it presents the author's main points. In an ethical essay, each body paragraph has several elements that should explain your main idea. These include:

When you write an ethics essay, adding relevant examples strengthens your main point and makes it easy for others to understand and comprehend your argument. 

A good body paragraph must have a well-defined topic sentence that makes a claim and includes evidence and examples to support it. Look at part of an example of ethics essay body paragraph below and see how its idea has been developed:

A concluding paragraph shares the summary and overview of the author's main arguments. Many students need clarification on what should be included in the essay conclusion and how best to get a reader's attention. When writing an ethics paper conclusion, consider the following:

You can also reflect on the topic or acknowledge any possible challenges or questions that have not been answered. A closing statement should present a call to action on the problem based on your position.

The conclusion paragraph restates the thesis statement and summarizes the arguments presented in that paper. The sample conclusion for an ethical essay example below demonstrates how you should write a concluding statement.  

In the above extract, the writer gives final thoughts on the topic, urging readers to adopt honest behavior.

As you learn how to write an ethics essay, it is not advised to immediately choose a topic and begin writing. When you follow this method, you will get stuck or fail to present concrete ideas. A good writer understands the importance of planning. As a fact, you should organize your work and ensure it captures key elements that shed more light on your arguments. Hence, following the essay structure and creating an outline to guide your writing process is the best approach. In the following segment, we have highlighted step-by-step techniques on how to write a good ethics paper.

Before writing ethical papers, brainstorm to find ideal topics that can be easily debated. For starters, make a list, then select a title that presents a moral issue that may be explained and addressed from opposing sides. Make sure you choose one that interests you. Here are a few ideas to help you search for topics:

Once you find a suitable topic and are ready, start to write your ethics essay, conduct preliminary research, and ascertain that there are enough sources to support it.

Once you choose a topic for your essay, the next step is gathering sufficient information about it. Conducting in-depth research entails looking through scholarly journals to find credible material. Ensure you note down all sources you found helpful to assist you on how to write your ethics paper. Use the following steps to help you conduct your research:

An outline will ease up your writing process when developing an ethic essay. As you develop a paper on ethics, jot down factual ideas that will build your paragraphs for each section. Include the following steps in your process:

Examples can also be included to support your main arguments. The structure should be sequential, coherent, and with a good flow from beginning to end. When you follow all steps, you can create an engaging and organized outline that will help you write a good essay.

Once you have selected a topic, conducted research, and outlined your main points, you can begin writing an essay . Ensure you adhere to the ethics paper format you have chosen. Start an ethics paper with an overview of your topic to capture the readers' attention. Build upon your paper by avoiding ambiguous arguments and using the outline to help you write your essay on ethics. Finish the introduction paragraph with a thesis statement that explains your main position.  Expand on your thesis statement in all essay paragraphs. Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence and provide evidence plus an example to solidify your argument, strengthen the main point, and let readers see the reasoning behind your stance. Finally, conclude the essay by restating your thesis statement and summarizing all key ideas. Your conclusion should engage the reader, posing questions or urging them to reflect on the issue and how it will impact them.

Proofreading your essay is the last step as you countercheck any grammatical or structural errors in your essay. When writing your ethic paper, typical mistakes you could encounter include the following:

While proofreading your ethical issue essay, read it aloud to detect lexical errors or ambiguous phrases that distort its meaning. Verify your information and ensure it is relevant and up-to-date. You can ask your fellow student to read the essay and give feedback on its structure and quality.

Writing an essay is challenging without the right steps. There are so many ethics paper examples on the internet, however, we have provided a list of free ethics essay examples below that are well-structured and have a solid argument to help you write your paper. Click on them and see how each writing step has been integrated. Ethics essay example 1

When writing papers on ethics, here are several tips to help you complete an excellent essay:

Creating this essay is a common exercise in academics that allows students to build critical skills. When you begin writing, state your stance on an issue and provide arguments to support your position. This guide gives information on how to write an ethics essay as well as examples of ethics papers. Remember to follow these points in your writing:

• Background information
• Thesis statement
• Restate thesis statement
• Summarize key points
• Final thoughts on the topic
• A topic sentence that is precise and reiterates your stance on the issue.
• Evidence supporting it.
• Examples that illustrate your argument.
• A thorough analysis showing how the evidence and examples relate to that issue.
• A transition sentence that connects one paragraph to another with the help of essay transitions .
• Restate the thesis statement to emphasize your position.
• Summarize its main points and evidence.
• Final thoughts on the issue and any other considerations.
• Review current trends affecting people.
• Think about your personal experiences.
• Study different moral theories and principles.
• Examine classical moral dilemmas.
• Clearly state and define a problem you want to discuss.
• This will guide your research process.
• Develop keywords that match the topic.
• Begin searching from a wide perspective. This will allow you to collect more information, then narrow it down by using the identified words above.
• Review the topic and information gathered to write a thesis statement.
• Identify the main arguments you want to discuss and include their evidence.
• Group them into sections, each presenting a new idea that supports the thesis.
• Write an outline.
• Review and refine it.
• Spelling errors: e.g., there, they’re, their.
• Homophone words: such as new vs. knew.
• Inconsistencies: like mixing British and American words, e.g., color vs. color.
• Formatting issues: e.g., double spacing, different font types.
• Choose a narrow topic and avoid broad subjects, as it is easy to cover the topic in detail.
• Ensure you have background information. A good understanding of a topic can make it easy to apply all necessary moral theories and principles in writing your paper.
• State your position clearly. It is important to be sure about your stance as it will allow you to draft your arguments accordingly.
• When writing ethics essays, be mindful of your audience. Provide arguments that they can understand.
• Integrate solid examples into your essay. Morality can be hard to understand; therefore, using them will help a reader grasp these concepts.
• Create an outline highlighting your main points.
• Write an effective introduction and provide background information on an issue.
• Include a thesis statement.
• Develop concrete arguments and their counterarguments, and use examples.
• Sum up all your key points in your conclusion and restate your thesis statement.

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

• Icon Calendar 4 August 2024
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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:

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

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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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 253,566 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

• 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?

• 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.

• 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."

• 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."

• 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

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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

• 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

• 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

You Might Also Like

• ↑ 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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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

If you feel that you need help with writing an ethics paper in view of its chellnging nature, you can contact us and send an order through a respective button. You can add your paper details by following all steps of the order placing process that you will find on the website. Once your order is placed, we will get back to you as soon as possible. You will be able to contact your essay writer and let them know all your wishes regarding your ethical paper.

Our writers have expertise in writing ethical papers including, so you don’t need to worry about the quality of the essay that you will receive. Your assignment will be delivered on time and at a reasonable price. Note that urgent papers will cost slightly more than assignments with a postponed deadline, so do not wait too long to make your order. We will be glad to assist you with your writing and guarantee 24/7 support until you receive your paper.

Lastly, remember that no paper can be written overnight, so if you intend to complete your paper in a few hours, you can end up writing only a first draft with imperfections. If you have only half a day before your task is due, feel free to place an urgent order, and we will deliver it in just three hours.

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• How to Write Ethics Essay
• How to Write an Ethics Essay: Step-by-Step Guide

• What is an Ethics Essay

The Purpose of Ethics Paper

Key elements, how to write an ethics essay step by step.

• Choosing an Ethics-Related Topic

Ethics Essay Topics

Ethics paper structure, introduction, thesis statement, body paragraphs.

• Bottom Line

When you're writing an ethics essay , you should have more than simply an intriguing topic on a moral dilemma to make your piece impactful. In fact, good content goes beyond beautiful writing. A paper also needs to have an organized structure containing all essential elements to effectively communicate the writer's ideas. This guide will shed more light on this critical task and show how to compose a brilliant ethics essay in 5 simple steps. Learn what features your paper should include and what examples to provide to ensure sound reasoning. Or simply entrust your assignment to our experts, and they will write an essay for you . 

What is an Ethics Essay 

An ethics essay is a piece of writing that argues both sides of a moral issue or ethical dilemma. Basically, an ethics paper focuses on issues of philosophical concern , such as the principles of right and wrong. In the essay on moral principles, a writer elaborates on the standards that govern human behavior.

Ethics includes a number of rules and practices, which are conventionally accepted and followed by people. It takes into account the moral principles and behavior of a human being in the social context. For example, most modern organizations have established a code of conduct to regulate how people should act. Thus, when writing an ethical paper, one needs to explain what attitude people hold towards such ethical principles. To be precise, a writer's task is to highlight the significance of the chosen issue and explain whether society follows or neglects specific standards.

An ethics essay's primary purpose is to set forth an argument for a specific position on a moral issue. As a rule, this type of paper requires a debate instead of a simple overview of an ethical dilemma. In this context, an ethics essay shares similar features with those of argumentative writing . In particular, a moral problem should be debatable, meaning that you need to be able to argue the subject.

Different people have different opinions regarding the same rules and norms of behavior. Some actions may be weird and unnatural for you, but quite common and acceptable to someone else. As a result, a writer should cover both sides of the problem . Even though an ethical essay shouldn't convince a reader to accept some behavior, nor should it remind an opinion essay; however a writer should exploit some techniques used in argumentative writing . Given its purpose, an ethics paper must contain such key elements common for an argumentative essay:

• Topic's significance : discusses an ethical issue that challenges society
• A thesis statement : covers the main focus of writing
• A firm argument : serves as a thesis statement on moral principles
• Evidence : supports the arguments for a dilemma 
• Counterargument : justifies the reasoning
• Rebuttal examples : additionally proves your position

The essay writing process includes only 5 simple steps , but it's crucial to follow each step to craft an excellent paper. The following guide explains how to compose an ethics essay that will immediately draw your reader's attention. Consider these steps to communicate your ideas clearly and concisely.

• Choose an ethics-related topic . Since writing an ethics paper involves building an argument, it is suggested to pick a debatable moral issue. Ideally, this should be a subject that can be discussed from opposing perspectives. Focus on the topic that evokes different opinions on the matter. This way, you will be able to provide the arguments and counterarguments concerning the issue. Remember to research to make sure there is enough supporting evidence.
• Create a question-based title . One suggestion is to pose a question in the title of your ethical paper. As an alternative, you can include a question in the introduction. One way or another, it should be thought-provoking to draw the reader's attention. For instance, you may want to ask an audience whether all humans are inherently selfish. Read one of our blogs that will tell you how to create good titles for essays . 
• Present a strong argument . This step involves writing a compelling thesis statement that will make the readers agree with your argument. Excite your reader with a provocative thesis. Make sure to build a claim based on the query in a title or the opening line. For example, you may write that all people are inherently selfish.
• Craft an essay outline . A good outline serves as a ground plan for your writing. A well-drafted structure will help you stay on track. Write down all critical points to fully cover information related to the chosen topic.
• Provide examples and counterarguments . This step is where you include all findings of research to demonstrate your reasoning. Each argument should be backed up accordingly. Populate your writing with supporting evidence followed by an explanation of how given examples prove your statement. Where applicable, introduce a counter argument and discuss why you refute it. Don't forget to cite the sources to build up credibility.

Choosing an Ethics-Related Topic 

A thought-provoking topic is a defining factor in crafting an excellent ethics essay. It should sound captivating and promising. When choosing a topic, you should focus on the ethical issues that concern modern society the most. According to statistics, the vast majority of readers appeal to emotions , so it would be a great idea to write an ethics paper on the challenging situations that humans face daily. Besides, the topics should have the following features :

• Problem-solving
• Informative

The combination of these qualities potentially turns any idea into the powerful weapon of an author. Basically, your research should be targeted at finding the answers, which bring benefits to other people .

To make the process easier for you, we have decided to suggest a selection of great ethics essay ideas .

• Should desperate times call for desperate measures?
• Is it possible to overcome jealousy?
• Can people refute personal egoism?
• Current ethical issues in healthcare.
• The importance of a moral code in the workplace.
• How do social background and family shape our ethical principles?
• Should people follow the same moral code ?
• Does ethics affect education?
• Is it right to speak the truth all the time?
• Should we forbid abortion?

You're welcome to choose any of the ethics essay topics mentioned above and craft your own concepts on their basis.

As with any other type of academic writing, an ethics paper should be properly organized . This being said, a writer needs to follow a straightforward ethics essay structure so that a piece is easy to read. The student's task is to state a moral dilemma and provide sound reasoning in a logical order. A good ethics paper should include an introduction, body part, and conclusion.

The introductory paragraph of your ethics paper should contain a brief synopsis of the topic and some background information that will logically lead to the argument. Besides, in the introduction, you also should outline the supporting examples you will give and state your thesis.

A thesis is a concise, one-sentence summary of your arguments. This single sentence should entirely reflect your main purpose , so your readers instantly understand whether it's worth their attention. Besides, it provides a writer with a narrow range of possible alternatives. A well-written thesis will help you stay focused on a specific topic in a broad field such as ethics. Try to compose a clear and informative thesis. Remember that every point should be tightly related to the thesis statement .

A standard ethics essay contains three body paragraphs that provide your main ideas on the issue of moral concern. Each body paragraph needs to focus on a different point or example. Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that clearly specifies why the reader should accept a particular point. (If you wonder how to write a topic sentence , read one of our blogs dedicated to this topic.) The body part of your essay is where you prove your arguments with evidence, facts, statistics, findings, and text citations. If it's possible, you should address the issue from opposing perspectives and then refute counterarguments. Researching an ethical problem from different angles and including supporting facts ensures credibility and reader's trust.

In the concluding part of an ethics paper, a writer should restate the thesis statement and sum up all of the points explained in the body paragraphs. Rather than presenting new ideas, an effective conclusion should evoke emotions. A great way to conclude an ethics essay is to end it with a personal opinion on the moral issue explaining how it impacts you.

Bottom Line 

In a nutshell, an ethics essay differs from other types of academic writing. Instead of introducing a personal opinion, a student should remain objective and build an unbiased argument. Make sure to follow these general tips to compose a great paper on ethics.

• Write about the topic you care
• Add a strong thesis statement
• Make sure there is introduction, main body, and conclusion
• Be specific and avoid wordiness
• Provide evidence and counterarguments
• Avoid contradicting points of view
• Discuss one idea per paragraph
• Restate your thesis in the conclusion part 

Now you know the peculiarities of writing an ethics essay. The main point is to write about things you are familiar with and follow a logical structure. But, if essay writing is rather challenging for you, it’s a good idea to rely on professional academic assistance. Trust us with any type of assignment, and our expert writers will take care of your task.

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• How to Write an Ethics Essay
• How to Write an Ethics Essay: Tips, Topics, and Ideas

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• About BEJR — Now 10 years in!
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Student’s Guide to Writing Critical Essays in Business Ethics (and beyond)

Here is some advice for writing critical essays, in business ethics but also in other fields. There is of course much more to say on the topic, but this is a start.

Writing your own critical essay:

What kinds of criticisms should you offer in your essay? There are a nearly infinite number of errors or problems that you might spot in an essay or book that you want to critique. Here are a few common ones to look for, to get you started:

• Point out one or more logical fallacies. Did the author present a false dilemma , for example? Or an argument from ignorance ? Has the author presented a false analogy or a hasty generalization ?
• Critique the scope of the author’s claim. For example, does the author claim that his or her conclusion applies to all cases, rather than just to the small number of cases he or she has actually argued for?
• Point out unjustified assumptions. Has the author made questionable assumptions about some matter of fact, without providing evidence? Alternatively, has the author assumed that readers share some questionable ethical starting point, perhaps a belief in a particular debatable principle?
• Point out internal contradictions. Does the author say two things that, perhaps subtly, contradict each other?
• Point out undesirable implications / consequences. Does the author’s position imply, perhaps accidentally, some further conclusion that the author (or audience) is unlikely to want to accept, upon reflection?

In general, a good critical essay should:

• Describe and explain in neutral terms the article or book being critiqued. Before you start offering criticism, you should demonstrate that you understand the point of view you are critiquing.
• Be modest. Your goal should be to offer some insight, rather than to win a debate. Rather than to “show that Smith is wrong” or “prove that Sen’s view is incorrect,” you should set your aims on some more reasonable goal, such as “casting doubt” on the view you are critiquing, or “suggesting reason why so-and-so should modify her view.”
• Be fair. Sometimes this is referred to as the “principle of charity.” It has nothing to do with donating money. Rather, it is about giving the other side what you owe them, namely a fair reading. Your goal is not to make the author whose work you are criticizing sound dumb. Rather, the goal is to make her sound smart, but then to make yourself sound smart, too, but showing how her view could be improved.
• Be well structured . Professors love structure. Remember: a critical essay is not just a bunch of ideas; it is an orderly attempt to convince someone (in most cases, your professor) of a particular point of view. Your ideas will only have real punch if you put them in a suitable structure. That’s not all that hard. For example, make sure your opening paragraph acts as a roadmap for what follows — telling the reader where you’re going and how you propose to get there. Make sure each paragraph in the body of your essay has a main point (a point connected to the goal of your essay!) and that its point is clearly explained.
• Stick to two or maybe three main arguments . “The three main problems with Jones’s argument are x, y, and z.”
• Be clear. That means not just that your essay should be clearly structured, but also that each sentence should be clear. Proof-reading is important: get someone with good writing skills to proof-read your essay for you. If you can’t do that before your deadline, you can proof-read your essay yourself by reading it out loud. We’re serious. It is much easier to spot errors in your own writing if you read out loud.

A few more tips:

• Cite your sources carefully. Use whichever citation method your professor says to use. If in doubt, use one of the established methods (such as APA or Chicago ). But whatever you do, make sure to give credit to the people whose ideas you use, if you want to avoid being charged with plagiarism.
• Use what you’ve learned in class. Your professor would love nothing more than to know that you’ve been paying attention. So try to make use of some of the concepts discussed in class, or in your course textbook.
• Don’t try to sound like an author. Just say what you want to say. Trying to sound like an author just leads people to use big words they don’t understand and to write complex sentences that overshoot their grammatical skills. Just write it more or less the way you would say it out loud, in short, clear sentences.
• Follow instructions. Failing to follow instructions is easily the most common way students screw up when writing critical essays. Read the assignment instructions through carefully — twice! — and then if anything is unclear, ask your professor for clarification.

Looking for essay topics? Check out Business Ethics Highlights .

See also: The Concise Encyclopedia of Business Ethics

Share this:

3 comments on “student’s guide to writing critical essays in business ethics (and beyond)”.

This is a useful resource – thanks Chris

“Shack”

Arthur Shacklock (Griffith University Queensland, Australia)

I’m currently a student at Arizona Christian University taking a Business Ethics course. I’m in the midst of completing an assignment that requires me to post on an open blog forum. It was very difficult for me to find something interesting and that pertained to my class. Then I stumbled across your blog then more specifically, this article. The purpose of this specific assignment is to share my individual and collective experiences derived from collaborative learning and expressed through the narrative, as “actionable knowledge.” Actionable knowledge reflects the learning capability of individuals and organizations to connect elements including; social, political, economic, technological.

Knowing how to write critical essays in Business Ethics is an important element of success. I enjoyed reading through these helpful tips. This is useful information that will help in college and beyond.

Supporting evidence is an important part of writing a sound paper. Like you mentioned in the blog, it can’t be based on bias or ignorance. Rather, backed up by factual evidence to help support your claim. I love the general key points as well. Describe and explain, be modest, be fair, be well structured, and be clear. I am very familiar with these key elements as we have spoken on them in class. They are very important components of business ethics. We’ve learned things about leading in the business world, Capitalism, Socialism, and Communism, Business advertising, and more. In the essay I write in this course, I will refer back to this blog.

Like any other course, it is important to cite your sources like you’ve mentioned above as well as use information that we’ve learned in class. Sound like yourself and speak from your own understanding. The last tip was to follow instructions WHICH IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS! It’s all in the fine print. Read until you understand and ask questions if you don’t.

Good luck with your studies, Deon!

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How to Write a Personal Ethics Statement—And Why Every Professional Should

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What is a Personal Ethics Statement?

Personal ethics are your guidelines for forming relationships, overcoming challenges, and decision- making. A personal ethics statement is a one-page essay that gives a picture of your core values and what potential supervisors, colleagues, or clients can expect from working with you. It can be useful when you’re applying for school , just starting out in your career, looking for a new job, trying to expand your client base, or advancing your career.  

In this article we will discuss personal ethics—which should not be mistaken for professional ethics. Personal ethics relate to the values you hold in personal relationships and daily life, an whereas professional ethics relate to how you conduct yourself in business settings, deals, and professional relationships.  

An important part of your personal ethics statement is identifying your personal beliefs and personal values. Some code of ethics examples include integrity, selflessness, honesty, loyalty, equality, fairness, empathy, respect, and self-respect. This article is a complete resource for forming your personal ethics and transforming them into a compelling personal ethics statement.

Professional Impacts of Personal Ethics

There are many occasions your personal ethics will play a role in your behavior in professional settings. No matter your line of work, it’s important that you maintain unshakable personal ethics in your professional relationships and how you interact in the workplace.

Business Ethics

Business ethics are the practices and policies put into place to ensure people and resources are treated ethically in business dealings. While you’re making decisions in business to benefit a company, you must consider the impact of those decisions on others. Developing your personal code of conduct will help support you in upholding your company policies in the workplace, which will help you maintain personal integrity, as well as avoid potential business scandals . Learn about how to be an ethical leader in a business setting.

With a career in information technology, part of your job involves having access to private or confidential information. Your moral compass plays a significant role in keeping this type of information safe, especially since cyber-attacks—which happen every 39 seconds on average—are so prevalent in modern society. Having a career in IT immerses you in the world of cyber security , where ethical behavior and policy adherence are essential.

Healthcare Ethics

In the healthcare field, you’re responsible for human lives, so it’s no wonder that strong professional competence and integrity are important in how you carry yourself at work. There are plenty of complex issues, regulations, and compliance policies that you’ll encounter in a hospital or care facility, which demands that you seek the guidance of your personal ethics.

Teaching Ethics

Strong moral values are a necessary component of being a teacher. When your job is to sculpt young minds, you have must take responsibility for setting a strong example for them. Part of this is keeping students safe, part of this is treating all students equally and without discrimination. Part of this is creating healthy boundaries between your students and your personal life . If you build a personal ethics statement, you have a north star to look towards in this professional setting as you encounter ethical dilemmas. If you’re planning to become a teacher, you should also consider writing a teaching philosophy statement.

How Do I Write a Personal Ethics Statement?

There are five essential steps to writing—and perfecting—your personal ethics statement: 

1. Know your audience. 

The first step to writing an effective personal ethics statement is knowing and understanding the audience you’re writing for. This one-page piece of writing is supposed to influence the reader, so keeping the motivations and sentiments of your audience in mind while writing is important to completing your goal. Once you know your audience, whether it be an admissions counselor or a potential employer, then you can choose words and reference practices and policies that resonate with them and meet any guidelines in place.  

2. Choose your goals. 

There are two important types of goals to think about when building your personal ethics statement: your short-term and long-term goals. For example, your short-term goal may be getting into college, while your long-term goal is becoming a software engineer. Once you identify these, then you can phrase your personal ethics in terms of how they relate to your desired career path. To build off the previous example, if you aspire to be a software engineer, you can talk about personal ethics that relate to cyber security or the hard work required to get to your desired goal. 

3. Determine your influences. 

What influences the decisions you make? This is an essential step in determining your code of ethics because every choice you make is influenced by internal and external factors. One factor that affects everyone is personal traits. Your personality plays a crucial role in the decisions you make and how you carry yourself with others. Another factor is the people in your life who have helped in shaping who you are today. A third example is momentous events. Everyone experiences wonderful, pivotal moments in their life, as well as tragic and traumatic moments. All these factors play a role in your personal ethics, and they should be included in your personal ethics statement. 

4. Identify your beliefs and practices. 

This step is about writing down examples of how you move through the world and the core beliefs you live by. Compelling stories elicit emotional reactions from your audience and prove that you put your personal ethics into daily practice. Examples are essential to creating a strong personal ethics statement. 

5. Name your “why.”  

Why did you choose the ethical principles that you did? Confidently answering this question and providing details is essential to the authenticity of the statement. Decide why your personal ethics are important to you, how your life experiences brought you to those ethics, and how you’ll continue to keep them at the center of your decisions going forward. This step is important to making sure your audience walks away with a clear understanding of what ethical standards are important to you and why. 

What Should I Include in a Personal Ethics Statement?

Your personal ethics statement should consist of an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.  

Start your personal ethics statement with a one- to two-paragraph introduction. Use the introduction to talk about the life experiences that helped form your ethical background. Maybe you had a major injury in your childhood that resulted in lifelong ability differences, and this made you an advocate for accessibility. Find a personal story that will engage your reader and provide a foundation for your statement.

In the body of your personal ethics statement—about two or three paragraphs—you should list each of the ethical principles that are central in your life. This is your opportunity to make sure the reader knows your core beliefs. If you have a personal mantra, include it here. In this section, true life examples are your friend.

What Should I not Include in a Personal Ethics Statement?

Since a personal ethics statement is a deeply personal piece of writing, it’s important to be honest and authentic. The last thing you want to do is include fake life experiences just to make a point. This also isn’t an opportunity to profess all your life’s mistakes. You are human and your personal ethics statement should reflect that, but in a positive and inspiring light.  

How to Conclude

Every personal ethics statement should have a strong conclusion. Sum it all up in a final paragraph where you explain how your core values make you a great person to have in a professional organization or an excellent candidate for an academic program.

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Crafting a Personal Ethics Statement Essay: A Comprehensive Guide

Dirghayu Kaushik

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• Creating a Personal Ethics Statement Essay

A personal ethics statement is a declaration of your beliefs and values. It serves as a mirror reflecting your personal view of ethics, morals, and the decisions you make daily.

Life experiences, religious beliefs, and family influence all contribute to the formation of your personal ethics. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to craft an effective personal ethics statement essay and discuss the importance of personal and professional ethics in your life.

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• Components of a Personal Ethics Statement

A personal ethics statement typically encompasses the following components:

• Introduction : This section should introduce your personal ethics, ethical principles, and the values you hold dear. Explain how your upbringing, life experiences, and the people in your life have contributed to your current belief system.
• Body : This section is the heart of your personal ethics essay. Elaborate on your values and ethical issues that are most important to you. Discuss how these ethics and morals guide your decisions and actions in every aspect of your life, both personal and professional.
• Conclusion : Summarize your personal ethics statement, emphasizing the key points and explaining how your ethics will play a role in your future decisions, professional growth, and relationships.

Tips for Crafting Your Personal Ethics Statement Essay

While writing your personal ethics statement essay, keep in mind the following tips:

• Be Authentic : Your ethics statement should reflect your true beliefs and values. Avoid listing ethics you feel you “should” have, and instead focus on the ethical guidelines and moral principles that genuinely resonate with you.
• Be Specific : Provide examples of situations where your ethics have guided your decisions or helped you distinguish between right and wrong. These examples can be from your personal or professional life.
• Reflect : Take time to reflect on your experiences and how they have shaped your ethical code. Consider how your ethics may evolve in the future and the impact they may have on your personal and professional relationships.

Importance of Personal and Professional Ethics

Ethics are fundamental to every aspect of your life. They guide your decisions and actions, affect your relationships with others, and influence your self-respect.

Personal ethics are formed through family influence, religious beliefs, and life experiences. Professional ethics, on the other hand, are the ethical standards and code of conduct that you adhere to in a professional setting. Both personal and professional ethics are crucial for maintaining ethical behavior and a clear understanding of right and wrong.

Interrelation between Personal and Professional Ethics

The interrelation between personal and professional ethics is significant in shaping an individual’s character and conduct. Here are some insightful points:

• Values Alignment: Personal ethics often influence professional ethics. When personal values align with organizational values, it fosters a sense of purpose and commitment in one’s work.
• Trustworthiness: Consistency between personal and professional ethics builds trust. Colleagues and clients are more likely to trust individuals who demonstrate integrity in both spheres.
• Decision-Making: Personal ethics serve as a foundation for ethical decision-making at work. Moral principles developed in personal life guide choices in professional dilemmas.
• Reputation: Personal behavior can impact professional reputation. Unethical actions in personal life can tarnish one’s professional image and credibility.
• Stress Reduction: Harmonizing personal and professional ethics reduces cognitive dissonance and stress. When actions align with beliefs, it enhances well-being.
• Leadership Example: Leaders who exemplify strong personal ethics inspire ethical behavior throughout their organizations, fostering a culture of integrity.
• Conflict Resolution: An individual’s personal ethics can aid in resolving ethical conflicts at work. It provides a framework for addressing disagreements and finding solutions.
• Long-Term Success: Individuals with a strong ethical foundation tend to have more sustainable professional careers. Ethical lapses can lead to setbacks and even legal issues.
• Adaptability: Personal ethics can evolve over time, influencing how one adapts to changing professional environments and ethical standards.
• Legal Implications: Personal ethical breaches can have legal repercussions in professional settings, emphasizing the need for alignment.

In essence, personal and professional ethics are intertwined, and recognizing this connection is crucial for ethical development and success in both personal and professional life.

The Role of Family and Religion in Shaping Personal Ethics

Family and religious beliefs play a significant role in shaping one’s personal ethics. From a young age, families impart values and morals, influencing one’s perception of right and wrong. Religious beliefs often provide a set of ethical guidelines and principles that individuals adhere to in their daily lives.

Family Influence

The family is often the first and most influential socializing agent in one’s life. Parents, siblings, and extended family members contribute to shaping one’s personal ethics in various ways:

• Teaching Values : From a young age, parents teach their children fundamental values such as honesty, kindness, and respect. These values form the foundation of a child’s personal ethics.
• Modeling Behavior : Children often mimic the behavior of their parents and other family members. If parents model ethical behavior, children are more likely to adopt similar ethical standards.
• Discussions and Debates : Family discussions about ethical issues, current events, or hypothetical scenarios can help children develop critical thinking skills and form their own opinions about what is right and wrong.
• Setting Expectations : Families often set expectations for behavior, which can influence a child’s sense of right and wrong. For example, a family that values hard work and perseverance may instill a strong work ethic in their children.

Religious Influence

Religion plays a crucial role in shaping personal ethics for many individuals. Religious teachings often provide a framework for understanding the world and making ethical decisions:

• Ethical Guidelines : Many religions have specific guidelines about what is considered right and wrong. For example, the Ten Commandments in Christianity provide a set of ethical guidelines for followers.
• Moral Stories : Religious texts often contain stories that illustrate moral lessons. These stories can help individuals understand and internalize ethical principles.
• Community Influence : Being part of a religious community can also influence one’s personal ethics. The shared beliefs and values of the community can reinforce one’s personal ethics.
• Spiritual Reflection : Religion often encourages self-reflection and mindfulness, which can help individuals gain a deeper understanding of their values and ethical principles.

Interplay between Family and Religion

Family and religion often intersect, and their influences on one’s personal ethics can be intertwined. For example, a family’s religious beliefs often influence the values they teach their children. Conversely, an individual’s personal ethics may influence their religious beliefs and practices.

It is important to reflect on how your family and religious beliefs have influenced your personal ethics and how they continue to guide your decisions and actions.

Understanding the role of family and religion in shaping your personal ethics can help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and the values you hold dear.

Navigating Ethical Dilemmas with Your Personal Ethics

Ethical dilemmas often arise in both personal and professional settings. Having a clear understanding of your personal ethics can help you navigate these dilemmas and make decisions that align with your values and ethical principles. When faced with an ethical dilemma, consider the following:

• Identify the Dilemma : Clearly define the ethical dilemma you are facing. What are the conflicting values or interests at play?
• Consider the Options : Evaluate all possible options and the potential consequences of each. Consider how each option aligns with your personal ethics.
• Make a Decision : Based on your evaluation, make a decision that aligns with your personal ethics and is the most appropriate course of action.
• Reflect : After making a decision, take time to reflect on the outcome. Did it align with your personal ethics? Would you make the same decision again?

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• Being a Role Model through Ethical Behavior

Being a role model means exhibiting ethical behavior in all aspects of your life. Your actions and decisions influence those around you, whether you realize it or not.

By adhering to your personal ethics and making decisions that reflect your values and ethical principles, you can inspire others to do the same. Consider the following tips to be a role model through ethical behavior:

• Lead by Example : Demonstrate ethical behavior in all your actions and decisions. Be consistent in your actions, whether in personal or professional settings.
• Be Accountable : Take responsibility for your actions and decisions. If you make a mistake, acknowledge it, and take steps to rectify it.
• Be Transparent : Be open and honest in your communication with others. Share your thought process and the reasons behind your decisions.
• Encourage Ethical Behavior : Encourage others to act ethically by acknowledging and rewarding ethical behavior.

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• Reflecting and Updating Your Personal Ethics Statement

Your personal ethics may evolve over time due to new experiences, changes in your belief system, or shifts in your perspective on ethical issues.

It is essential to periodically reflect on and update your personal ethics statement. Consider the following steps to reflect on and update your personal ethics statement:

• Reflect on Your Experiences : Take time to reflect on your experiences and how they have influenced your personal ethics. Have you encountered any ethical dilemmas that challenged your beliefs? Have your values or ethical principles evolved?
• Evaluate Your Current Ethics Statement : Review your current personal ethics statement. Does it still accurately reflect your values and ethical principles? Are there any areas that need updating or revising?
• Update Your Ethics Statement : Based on your reflection and evaluation, update your personal ethics statement to accurately reflect your current values and ethical principles.
• Seek Feedback : Share your updated personal ethics statement with a trusted friend, family member, or mentor. Seek feedback on whether your statement accurately reflects your values and ethical principles.
• Implement Your Updated Ethics Statement : Apply your updated personal ethics statement to your daily life and decision-making. Reflect on how your updated ethics influence your actions and decisions.

In conclusion, crafting a personal ethics statement essay is not only an exercise in self-awareness but also a guide that can profoundly influence your decisions and actions, both personally and professionally.

Your personal ethics are a reflection of your character and play a critical role in your interactions, your approach to ethical dilemmas, and your role as a model for others.

Therefore, it is crucial to take time to reflect on your values, consider the influence of family and religion, navigate ethical dilemmas, and continuously update your personal ethics statement.

Remember that your personal ethics are not set in stone; they may evolve and adapt as you grow and learn. Hence, revisiting and revising your personal ethics statement is an essential practice in your journey of self-development and professional growth.

What is a personal ethics statement?

A personal ethics statement is a declaration of your core values and ethical principles that guide your decisions and actions.

Why is a personal ethics statement important?

It helps you gain a clear understanding of your values and ethical guidelines, guiding your decisions and actions in both personal and professional settings.

How do I write a personal ethics statement essay?

Start by reflecting on your values, ethical principles, and life experiences that have shaped your beliefs. Then, organize your thoughts into an introduction, body, and conclusion, elaborating on your values and providing specific examples.

Can my personal ethics evolve over time?

Yes, your personal ethics may evolve due to new experiences, changes in your belief system, or shifts in your perspective on ethical issues. It is essential to periodically reflect on and update your personal ethics statement.

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Table of Contents

• • Creating a Personal Ethics Statement Essay
• • Components of a Personal Ethics Statement
• • Being a Role Model through Ethical Behavior
• • Reflecting and Updating Your Personal Ethics Statement
• • Conclusion

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How to Write an Ethics Short Essay

An ethics short essay must be argumentative and focus on a moral issue that is up for debate. It should evoke differing opinions and contain arguments and counterarguments as well as supporting evidence. There are three common types of ethics essays, Public sector, Military, and Philosophy of religion. Here is a brief guide to writing an ethics short essay. A well-written ethics paper can help you score high marks and gain entrance into top universities and colleges.

Professional ethics

There are many reasons for practicing professional ethics. First, it contributes to a person’s success, which is an important reason for a company to provide a written code of ethics to its employees. Second, conflicting ethical codes can cause confusion, which can result in politics and conflict. Professional organizations cannot afford to have warring factions. So, how can we make professional ethics an essential part of our lives? Let’s examine a few of the most common reasons for practicing professional ethics and how we can improve our daily work.

Military ethics

If you’re a member of the armed forces, you’re probably very aware of the importance of military ethics. As a matter of fact, military ethics are fundamental to military life. These values should be inculcated into the minds of all members of the military. After all, they are meant to become the norm, not the exception. But how do you ensure that military personnel uphold these ethical principles? Here are some tips.

First, you must understand that wars can be justified if they are proportionate to the threat. Moreover, the principle of discrimination is essential to just war thinking. For example, before World War II, world leaders publicly declared that indiscriminate bombing of cities was not acceptable. This principle was upheld by daylight precision bombing, but it was not practical. Instead, military officials tried to follow the principle of discrimination by targeting specific targets.

Moreover, military opponents must be treated with respect and dignity. Warfare must not be motivated by revenge or pleasure, and the use of force against civilians must only be justified when a military’s actions have a clear purpose, such as defending the community. But it should also be remembered that there are times when a military should engage in indiscriminate killing. Ultimately, military ethics should help the soldiers internalize these values.

Public sector ethics

The public sector is a large organization that seeks to resolve issues related to public welfare. While it is vital to be ethical in business practices, it is also critical to have a strong moral compass and earn the confidence of the public. In a democracy, public opinion has the most power, so gaining that confidence is imperative. Further, public sector ethics help companies establish common goals and values. Ultimately, ethics help public institutions and companies achieve those goals.

Often, public servants try to divert criticism to other levels of the system. They mention other wrongdoings in the institution and argue that the violations should not be made public. However, these public servants fail to recognize that there is a wider scope to ethics than what is found in statutes. Public sector employees are often tempted to disregard ethical principles in favor of their own economic survival. In such cases, they may end up in a situation that is more problematic than they were originally.

In a public sector, officials are under a special responsibility to represent society and serve the citizens. Ethical principles are often different from personal values, and this can make public officials vulnerable to breaking the rules of their profession. Yet, in some cases, the consequences of misconduct are high and the public is often unaware of the misconduct. In some cases, citizens are even the direct victims of such misconduct. In such a scenario, it is essential to understand the public sector ethics and its impact on society.

Philosophy of religion

What is the Big Question of Philosophy of Religion ? The Big Question asks how we can sort various kinds of ultimacies, including the ones related to reality and death, and how they relate to religious experiences and beliefs. Philosophers of religion engage in ongoing discussions of how to determine which types of ultimacies are real and which are not. This article outlines one important philosophical question and its answer. This essay demonstrates how philosophers of religion use the Big Question to explore religion.

Throughout history, philosophers have attempted to explain the concept of God, and the many grounds people have offered to justify their belief. Many related topics are also discussed, including the relationship between reason and faith, the nature of religious language, and the question of how a good God can allow evil. While philosophers of religion may seem very different, their work relates to one another. Therefore, philosophers of religion can be categorized as either general or specific.

Throughout history, philosophers of religion have grappled with such questions as God’s omniscience, and the relationship between religion and morality. Other controversial issues have included the nature of religious language and the relationship between faith and morality. Philosophers of religion have struggled with these issues and argued that people should be free to say what they think, regardless of whether it is correct or wrong. Ultimately, the debate about the nature of reality is a fundamental one that cannot be solved with any philosophical system.

Normative ethics

Normative ethics is a branch of philosophy that deals with the standard of conduct, and therefore the right thing to do. The study of morality, however, involves much more than deciding which actions are morally right and which are wrong. Rather, it analyzes the morality of the actions by considering their consequences. A short essay on Normative ethics will explore the basic concept of moral standards, and will highlight the difference between deontological and teleological theories.

Normative ethics focuses on moral principles and virtues. It asks where these moral values are derived. Some well-known philosophers, including Michel de Montaigne and Friedrich Nietzsche, advocated a “moral relativism” approach that denied that there were any absolute moral standards. Moreover, normative ethics does not deal with metaphysical questions, such as whether there is a god or an ideal. It deals with semantic, epistemological, and psychological inquiries.

Normative ethics can be broadly applied to many practical issues, such as abortion, euthanasia, animal rights, and criminal punishment. It also often makes use of meta-ethical tools, such as ethical realism and consequentialism. A short essay on Normative ethics can be useful for students. It can serve as a model for an assignment or guide to research. You can also use your peers’ essays as a resource for ideas.

Importance of ethics in a peaceful and harmonious society

As a social construct, ethics play a vital role in defining individual behaviour. Since the dawn of civilization, men have sought to keep human conduct in check. Today, written law rules official business and happenings, but ethics are an unsung force balancing the interests of human beings and society. While written law is often adequate to protect individuals and society, it cannot prevent the ravages of unethical behavior.

The implication of the term harmonious society is profound. It could mean anything from a stable democracy to a thriving socialism. It can also mean living harmoniously with nature and with each other. This is possible through the establishment of a legal system and cultural norms that promote fairness and a culture of rule of law. A harmonious society will promote these aspects. This is the essence of a society.

In addition to its value for humanity, peace and harmony improve economic and social conditions. It also fosters individual creativity and promotes sustainable development of nations. In this way, it also promotes human health. Peace means a world where everyone can work together in harmony, and harmony translates into a healthier society. And it means dealing with disputes in a fair and equitable manner, avoiding violence, and using the Middle Way principles to resolve conflicts.

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• 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

Table of contents

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 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.

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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.

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.

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

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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Home » Ethical Considerations – Types, Examples and Writing Guide

Ethical Considerations – Types, Examples and Writing Guide

Table of Contents

Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations in research refer to the principles and guidelines that researchers must follow to ensure that their studies are conducted in an ethical and responsible manner. These considerations are designed to protect the rights, safety, and well-being of research participants, as well as the integrity and credibility of the research itself

Some of the key ethical considerations in research include:

• Informed consent: Researchers must obtain informed consent from study participants, which means they must inform participants about the study’s purpose, procedures, risks, benefits, and their right to withdraw at any time.
• Privacy and confidentiality : Researchers must ensure that participants’ privacy and confidentiality are protected. This means that personal information should be kept confidential and not shared without the participant’s consent.
• Harm reduction : Researchers must ensure that the study does not harm the participants physically or psychologically. They must take steps to minimize the risks associated with the study.
• Fairness and equity : Researchers must ensure that the study does not discriminate against any particular group or individual. They should treat all participants equally and fairly.
• Use of deception: Researchers must use deception only if it is necessary to achieve the study’s objectives. They must inform participants of the deception as soon as possible.
• Use of vulnerable populations : Researchers must be especially cautious when working with vulnerable populations, such as children, pregnant women, prisoners, and individuals with cognitive or intellectual disabilities.
• Conflict of interest : Researchers must disclose any potential conflicts of interest that may affect the study’s integrity. This includes financial or personal relationships that could influence the study’s results.
• Data manipulation: Researchers must not manipulate data to support a particular hypothesis or agenda. They should report the results of the study objectively, even if the findings are not consistent with their expectations.
• Intellectual property: Researchers must respect intellectual property rights and give credit to previous studies and research.
• Cultural sensitivity : Researchers must be sensitive to the cultural norms and beliefs of the participants. They should avoid imposing their values and beliefs on the participants and should be respectful of their cultural practices.

Types of Ethical Considerations

Types of Ethical Considerations are as follows:

Research Ethics:

This includes ethical principles and guidelines that govern research involving human or animal subjects, ensuring that the research is conducted in an ethical and responsible manner.

Business Ethics :

This refers to ethical principles and standards that guide business practices and decision-making, such as transparency, honesty, fairness, and social responsibility.

Medical Ethics :

This refers to ethical principles and standards that govern the practice of medicine, including the duty to protect patient autonomy, informed consent, confidentiality, and non-maleficence.

Environmental Ethics :

This involves ethical principles and values that guide our interactions with the natural world, including the obligation to protect the environment, minimize harm, and promote sustainability.

Legal Ethics

This involves ethical principles and standards that guide the conduct of legal professionals, including issues such as confidentiality, conflicts of interest, and professional competence.

Social Ethics

This involves ethical principles and values that guide our interactions with other individuals and society as a whole, including issues such as justice, fairness, and human rights.

Information Ethics

This involves ethical principles and values that govern the use and dissemination of information, including issues such as privacy, accuracy, and intellectual property.

Cultural Ethics

This involves ethical principles and values that govern the relationship between different cultures and communities, including issues such as respect for diversity, cultural sensitivity, and inclusivity.

Technological Ethics

This refers to ethical principles and guidelines that govern the development, use, and impact of technology, including issues such as privacy, security, and social responsibility.

Journalism Ethics

This involves ethical principles and standards that guide the practice of journalism, including issues such as accuracy, fairness, and the public interest.

Educational Ethics

This refers to ethical principles and standards that guide the practice of education, including issues such as academic integrity, fairness, and respect for diversity.

Political Ethics

This involves ethical principles and values that guide political decision-making and behavior, including issues such as accountability, transparency, and the protection of civil liberties.

Professional Ethics

This refers to ethical principles and standards that guide the conduct of professionals in various fields, including issues such as honesty, integrity, and competence.

Personal Ethics

This involves ethical principles and values that guide individual behavior and decision-making, including issues such as personal responsibility, honesty, and respect for others.

Global Ethics

This involves ethical principles and values that guide our interactions with other nations and the global community, including issues such as human rights, environmental protection, and social justice.

Applications of Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations are important in many areas of society, including medicine, business, law, and technology. Here are some specific applications of ethical considerations:

• Medical research : Ethical considerations are crucial in medical research, particularly when human subjects are involved. Researchers must ensure that their studies are conducted in a way that does not harm participants and that participants give informed consent before participating.
• Business practices: Ethical considerations are also important in business, where companies must make decisions that are socially responsible and avoid activities that are harmful to society. For example, companies must ensure that their products are safe for consumers and that they do not engage in exploitative labor practices.
• Environmental protection: Ethical considerations play a crucial role in environmental protection, as companies and governments must weigh the benefits of economic development against the potential harm to the environment. Decisions about land use, resource allocation, and pollution must be made in an ethical manner that takes into account the long-term consequences for the planet and future generations.
• Technology development : As technology continues to advance rapidly, ethical considerations become increasingly important in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and genetic engineering. Developers must ensure that their creations do not harm humans or the environment and that they are developed in a way that is fair and equitable.
• Legal system : The legal system relies on ethical considerations to ensure that justice is served and that individuals are treated fairly. Lawyers and judges must abide by ethical standards to maintain the integrity of the legal system and to protect the rights of all individuals involved.

Examples of Ethical Considerations

Here are a few examples of ethical considerations in different contexts:

• In healthcare : A doctor must ensure that they provide the best possible care to their patients and avoid causing them harm. They must respect the autonomy of their patients, and obtain informed consent before administering any treatment or procedure. They must also ensure that they maintain patient confidentiality and avoid any conflicts of interest.
• In the workplace: An employer must ensure that they treat their employees fairly and with respect, provide them with a safe working environment, and pay them a fair wage. They must also avoid any discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or any other characteristic protected by law.
• In the media : Journalists must ensure that they report the news accurately and without bias. They must respect the privacy of individuals and avoid causing harm or distress. They must also be transparent about their sources and avoid any conflicts of interest.
• In research: Researchers must ensure that they conduct their studies ethically and with integrity. They must obtain informed consent from participants, protect their privacy, and avoid any harm or discomfort. They must also ensure that their findings are reported accurately and without bias.
• In personal relationships : People must ensure that they treat others with respect and kindness, and avoid causing harm or distress. They must respect the autonomy of others and avoid any actions that would be considered unethical, such as lying or cheating. They must also respect the confidentiality of others and maintain their privacy.

How to Write Ethical Considerations

When writing about research involving human subjects or animals, it is essential to include ethical considerations to ensure that the study is conducted in a manner that is morally responsible and in accordance with professional standards. Here are some steps to help you write ethical considerations:

• Describe the ethical principles: Start by explaining the ethical principles that will guide the research. These could include principles such as respect for persons, beneficence, and justice.
• Discuss informed consent : Informed consent is a critical ethical consideration when conducting research. Explain how you will obtain informed consent from participants, including how you will explain the purpose of the study, potential risks and benefits, and how you will protect their privacy.
• Address confidentiality : Describe how you will protect the confidentiality of the participants’ personal information and data, including any measures you will take to ensure that the data is kept secure and confidential.
• Consider potential risks and benefits : Describe any potential risks or harms to participants that could result from the study and how you will minimize those risks. Also, discuss the potential benefits of the study, both to the participants and to society.
• Discuss the use of animals : If the research involves the use of animals, address the ethical considerations related to animal welfare. Explain how you will minimize any potential harm to the animals and ensure that they are treated ethically.
• Mention the ethical approval : Finally, it’s essential to acknowledge that the research has received ethical approval from the relevant institutional review board or ethics committee. State the name of the committee, the date of approval, and any specific conditions or requirements that were imposed.

When to Write Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations should be written whenever research involves human subjects or has the potential to impact human beings, animals, or the environment in some way. Ethical considerations are also important when research involves sensitive topics, such as mental health, sexuality, or religion.

In general, ethical considerations should be an integral part of any research project, regardless of the field or subject matter. This means that they should be considered at every stage of the research process, from the initial planning and design phase to data collection, analysis, and dissemination.

Ethical considerations should also be written in accordance with the guidelines and standards set by the relevant regulatory bodies and professional associations. These guidelines may vary depending on the discipline, so it is important to be familiar with the specific requirements of your field.

Purpose of Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations are an essential aspect of many areas of life, including business, healthcare, research, and social interactions. The primary purposes of ethical considerations are:

• Protection of human rights: Ethical considerations help ensure that people’s rights are respected and protected. This includes respecting their autonomy, ensuring their privacy is respected, and ensuring that they are not subjected to harm or exploitation.
• Promoting fairness and justice: Ethical considerations help ensure that people are treated fairly and justly, without discrimination or bias. This includes ensuring that everyone has equal access to resources and opportunities, and that decisions are made based on merit rather than personal biases or prejudices.
• Promoting honesty and transparency : Ethical considerations help ensure that people are truthful and transparent in their actions and decisions. This includes being open and honest about conflicts of interest, disclosing potential risks, and communicating clearly with others.
• Maintaining public trust: Ethical considerations help maintain public trust in institutions and individuals. This is important for building and maintaining relationships with customers, patients, colleagues, and other stakeholders.
• Ensuring responsible conduct: Ethical considerations help ensure that people act responsibly and are accountable for their actions. This includes adhering to professional standards and codes of conduct, following laws and regulations, and avoiding behaviors that could harm others or damage the environment.

Advantages of Ethical Considerations

Here are some of the advantages of ethical considerations:

• Builds Trust : When individuals or organizations follow ethical considerations, it creates a sense of trust among stakeholders, including customers, clients, and employees. This trust can lead to stronger relationships and long-term loyalty.
• Reputation and Brand Image : Ethical considerations are often linked to a company’s brand image and reputation. By following ethical practices, a company can establish a positive image and reputation that can enhance its brand value.
• Avoids Legal Issues: Ethical considerations can help individuals and organizations avoid legal issues and penalties. By adhering to ethical principles, companies can reduce the risk of facing lawsuits, regulatory investigations, and fines.
• Increases Employee Retention and Motivation: Employees tend to be more satisfied and motivated when they work for an organization that values ethics. Companies that prioritize ethical considerations tend to have higher employee retention rates, leading to lower recruitment costs.
• Enhances Decision-making: Ethical considerations help individuals and organizations make better decisions. By considering the ethical implications of their actions, decision-makers can evaluate the potential consequences and choose the best course of action.
• Positive Impact on Society: Ethical considerations have a positive impact on society as a whole. By following ethical practices, companies can contribute to social and environmental causes, leading to a more sustainable and equitable society.

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The Link Between Professionalism and Ethics Essay

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Professionalism and ethics are key factors in a job setting. These two aspects work hand in hand. Engineering is no different case. Ethics seeks to evaluate deeply on moral aspects. It entails the practices that the staff carries out in an establishment. It incorporates; good value, code of conduct, moral value, principles and virtues. The ethics enable one to outlay professionalism in undertaking his engineering career.

Professional ethics helps a lot in proficiency and comprehending problems encountered in this field. Ethics assists one to know the good and bad sides of a person in a work setting. Engineering ethics are the codes of standard applied in the field of engineering. These ethics portray good conducts in professional engineers.

In accordance with the innovation in science and technology one needs to uphold high moral standard in terms of principle and practices. It concentrates on doing the right action with out inconveniencing other parties. In engineering one needs guidelines that propel him or her to success in this field. The guidelines are set values that give the ability to make correct choices, decisions and action. Not all values are equal.

It all depends with the perception of a person and his/her experience. One can modify and create beliefs that define his identity. Thus he may hold characters such as social skills, peace among co-workers, truth and honesty. Perseverance, discernment and accuracy are also values that one needs to have in order to relay services professionally. This boosts his moral behavior and upholds professional skills.

In addition to values and morals a professional needs work ethics. These ethics ought to be principled and easy to interpret. Employing attitudes of work value will need a lot of motivation in order to succeed. This goes along way to increase the productivity and overall performance in engineering.

In the work place the relationship among co-workers and employees in the organization, depends heavily on the ethics. The engineers tactfully apply the code of ethics to tackle problems encountered in the field. The engineer should offer high standard of service to the client. He should work towards achieving set objectives as part of strengthening his skills in the profession (Naagarazan 41).

Moral issues may arise at certain times in an organization. This will require one to apply professionalism to tackle such issues. Issues such as resource crouch may lead one to be manipulated and unethical termination of projects. Another issue is applying double standards in making decisions and selection of projects.

The management may seek to fulfill their interest more than the employees. The employees may develop poor attitude to providing services to the consumers.

These issues can be sorted through normative inquiry where norms are used to guide the employees and the management to run the organization. The management should come in strongly to offer a neutral field for implementation of these norms.

Another way of curbing moral issues is by conceptual inquiry where all the employees are directed and informed of the concepts and principles. Factual or descriptive inquiry is another way to solve the moral issues arising in an organization. This inquiry provides information about practices and effectiveness of the system.

When one upholds professionalism he or she expects to be loyal to the organization, have high level of integrity, be knowledgeable and applies tact in undertaking tasks of the organization. He should be a social catalyst and serve the management and other employees without biasness.

The professional conduct helps to gain trust in the public and improve professional development (Naagarazan 39). Professionalism in the public domain determines how resources and other activities are carried out. A professional will bear responsibility of his work in the sense that he becomes liable and accountable for action he takes in the organization. By carrying out his duty well, he gets appraisal from the management due to his success.

A competent professional will strive to meet the requirement of the client. It is highly recommended that clients confidentiality to be observed. This is also part of professionalism since the client builds trust in the employee.

Other attributes of a competent professional is to respect the management and other employees as well as the client. Courtesy when communicating to client will boost confidence in the engineer from the client perspective. They should also be ready to offer services to a diverse population.

The employee should avoid fraud and misuse of resources at all times. Above all discipline is very important. In a sum up professionalism is the equality of being honest and faithful to the profession. Always honor the law and observe rules and regulation of the State.

Professionalism may be hindered by a number of factors such as poverty levels and high level for illiteracy in the society. Most engineers may take advantage of these situations in the society and offer substantial services to them. To curb this situation the engineers should be given adequate remuneration to refrain them from exploiting the less fortunate (Philip 74). Professionalism and ethics work hand in hand.

For one to be a successful professional he or she needs to have all the ethics values and virtues. Successful engineers are as a result of the moral behaviors and work ethics they endorse in their day to day undertaking. If these ethics are advocated world wide then the world will absolutely have more engineers who are professionally fit.

Naagarazan, Ramayan. Textbook on Professional Ethics and Human Values. New Delhi: New Age International, 2006. Print.

Philip, Sadler. Management consultancy: a handbook for best practice. London: Kogan Page Publishers, 2002. Print.

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Title Page Setup

A title page is required for all APA Style papers. There are both student and professional versions of the title page. Students should use the student version of the title page unless their instructor or institution has requested they use the professional version. APA provides a student title page guide (PDF, 199KB) to assist students in creating their title pages.

Student title page

The student title page includes the paper title, author names (the byline), author affiliation, course number and name for which the paper is being submitted, instructor name, assignment due date, and page number, as shown in this example.

Title page setup is covered in the seventh edition APA Style manuals in the Publication Manual Section 2.3 and the Concise Guide Section 1.6

Related handouts

• Student Title Page Guide (PDF, 263KB)
• Student Paper Setup Guide (PDF, 3MB)

Student papers do not include a running head unless requested by the instructor or institution.

Follow the guidelines described next to format each element of the student title page.

Professional title page

The professional title page includes the paper title, author names (the byline), author affiliation(s), author note, running head, and page number, as shown in the following example.

Follow the guidelines described next to format each element of the professional title page.

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Interview: The Emerging Ethics of Innovative Brain Research

As brain research advances, how should study participants be protected bioethicist saskia hendriks has some ideas..

Visual: iStock via Getty Images

N ervous system disorders are among the leading causes of death and disability globally. Conditions such as paralysis and aphasia, which affects the ability to understand and produce language, can be devastating to patients and families. Significant investment has been put toward brain research, including the development of new technologies to treat some conditions, said Saskia Hendriks , a bioethicist at the U.S. National Institutes of Health. These technologies may very well improve lives, but they also raise a host of ethical issues.

That’s in part because of the unique nature of the brain, said Hendriks. It’s “the seat of many functions that we think are really important to ourselves, like consciousness, thoughts, memories, emotions, perceptions, actions, perhaps identity.”

Saskia Hendriks, a bioethicist at the U.S. National Institutes of Health, recently co-authored an essay on the emerging ethical questions in highly innovative brain research.

Visual: Courtesy of Saskia Hendriks

In a June essay in The New England Journal of Medicine, Hendriks and a co-author, Christine Grady, outlined some of the thorny ethical questions related to brain research: What is the best way to protect the long-term interests of people who receive brain implants as part of a clinical trial? As technology gets better at decoding thoughts , how can researchers guard against violations of mental privacy? And what best way to prepare for the far-off possibility that consciousness may one day arise from work derived from human stem cells?

Hendriks spoke about the essay in a Zoom interview. Our conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

Undark: Your piece focuses on three hypothetical examples in which brain research raises ethical dilemmas. The first imagines a quadriplegic person named Mr. P. who enrolls in a clinical trial to receive a brain implant. The implant allows him to move his arm and improves his quality of life. But three years later, the implant stops working. The company has declared bankruptcy and replacement parts are no longer available. As things stand today, what would happen to Mr. P.?

Saskia Hendriks: Let me contextualize it a little bit. There are several studies that are ongoing that involve brain implants. These studies offer hope to patients with serious brain disorders who’ve tried all existing treatments without success. And in cases when these implants work, patients understandably may want to keep them, and may want them to keep working. In other cases, some brain implants may simply be too risky to take out.

However, if you keep an experimental implant — if you want to keep benefiting from it — you need ongoing care. That might be hardware, like a new battery; it might be just monitoring to ensure the settings are right. You also need ongoing care to reduce risks associated with an existing implant.

We know that some former participants of brain implant studies experience challenges in the continued access related to this experimental implant. For example, an implant might be so novel that only really the surgeon who put it in is willing to go back in and change it if that’s necessary. In that case, former research participants maintain relying on this initial surgeon. What happens when the surgeon relocates or retires? That can cause challenges, as you can imagine.

Like battery replacements: You might need them every five years — depends on the implant. But some patients experience challenges in terms of who pays for this procedure and whether they have access to the battery. It’s not the case that this is necessarily the health insurers. It depends on the implant and the case.

The article represents a relatively extreme scenario — the one you just outlined. Unfortunately, this is a hypothetical scenario, but we didn’t completely make it up, in the sense that there have been several examples in the past years in the media of cases where a patient received an experimental brain implant and experienced this type of situation where the company went out of business or could, for some reason, no longer support the device. And then they ended up having a need for a new hardware piece , or something like that, which was really difficult to resolve.

In the United States, there are no legal requirements that make the professionals who are involved in the study responsible. So it’s about ethics, given that there are no legal requirements at this point. And in as far as ethics goes, who is responsible for post-trial care? It always depends to some degree, I would say, on the case because it requires, on the one hand, balancing the interests of the former participants. But there’s also a concern that if we make the threshold of what we make companies and investigators and funders and others responsible for, this could have a potential important deterrent effect on whether we’re able to conduct trials, whether companies are willing to do them, [or whether] institutions are willing to have them happen.

In this article, we argue that first, if patients receive a brain implant — and especially if they lack any other treatment alternatives that might help them and end up benefiting — we think it’s inappropriate to require that they will be explanted in most cases. They should be allowed to keep the device. Of course, there might be some exceptions, but in general, we think they should get to keep the device. We make some more specific recommendations in the paper.

UD: The second hypothetical describes a woman in a study that uses brain imaging to reconstruct or read her thoughts. This type of technology may ultimately help people with Broca’s aphasia , but it raises concerns about mental privacy for the study participants. Can you discuss these concerns?

SH: In this case, it’s really important to distinguish between what’s currently possible and what may be possible in the future. For example, I don’t think we can currently read thoughts.

Most of these studies capture information from the motor cortex of the brain. That’s the part of the brain that’s involved in the execution of voluntary actions. So, for example, they may have asked a patient to imagine writing a sentence, and then they try to read the part of the brain that gives the command to write the sentence, and they try to see if by decoding the motor cortex, if they can reimagine the sentence that the person is trying to write. So in other words, unless the person gives the command to write in their mind, they wouldn’t capture it.

It’s really important to recognize that in order to do this, they had to collect 16-plus hours of fMRI data from an individual who was cooperating with this study. Now, researchers are exploring the applications of this decoder with more limited data from the subject that they’re trying to decode the information from.

If one would take it one step beyond that, and it becomes possible to apply this type of decoder on data that’s collected for different purposes — and that’s a really big if — then I would start to get pretty concerned about privacy.

For example, if we will be able to reconstruct silent speech that individuals had while being in a research fMRI for any other research study in the past, and some of this data is in public archives, that would make me concerned. By way of example, in college, I volunteered into plenty of fMRI studies. I don’t know what inner monologues I had at the time, but I would probably prefer that others don’t decipher whatever it was.

We’re still various steps from this scenario. I think for now, though, there is a reason to think carefully about protections. And that means, are there certain types of research we shouldn’t try to do?

UD: The third hypothetical asks a startling question: What should happen if evidence of consciousness or sentience emerges in organoids? Can you explain what a brain organoid is? And do some scientists believe there’s the potential for organoids to become conscious?

SH: Organoids are collections of neural cells that are derived from pluripotent stem cells that can be either induced pluripotent stem cells or embryonic pluripotent stem cells. And these are collections of cells that can develop in a manner that’s similar to that of fetal brains. I place emphasis on that because it’s really not the same as a developing fetal brain. There are some similarities.

These models are really important for brain science because it’s really hard to study a human brain of a living individual, and these models might help improve our understanding of how the brain works, its development, its function, and potentially disease. There are still important limitations in the current size and complexity and some other scientific elements of these models.

I have not heard of a single scientist who thinks current organoids have those types of capacities that we would be particularly concerned about. There is some disagreement among scientists of whether these types of morally relevant properties might be able to emerge in organoids at some point in the future. Some scientists believe that will never happen; there are some others who think it might be possible at some point in future.

However, even that group — at least some of them would still argue that the level of, let’s say consciousness, even if it emerges, it would be similar to like the level of consciousness of an insect like a grasshopper, and not like a human being, which arguably might have implications for how you should treat said organoid.

UD: Your piece recommends guidelines for organoid research. Can you give some examples?

SH: If organoids develop consciousness or sentience or other relevant capacities like being able to experience pain, it will be very important to recognize that because, arguably, we should then start treating them differently. There are some scientific challenges, actually, in being able to measure these types of things. But one of the things we recommended is trying to define some checkpoints that may help researchers determine when a line is crossed or additional oversight is needed.

Depending on the type of organoid research, including the type of stem cell it originated in, oversight may currently be somewhat limited. And so we think there may be cases in the future where more oversight is warranted.

An additional layer has to do with informed consent. There’s some preliminary studies that suggest that at least some people feel uneasy, morally, about the use of their own cells to develop these types of organoids. And so that raises questions about, should we specify, for example, as part of the informed consent when we ask people for their tissue, should we be specifying all your tissues might be used for this type of research and give people the opportunity to opt out? There are currently ongoing conversations about what should be the standards in terms of informed consent.

UD: From what you’ve seen, are brain researchers and device companies thinking enough about the ethical implications of their research and products?

SH: I’ve seen many very ethically conscientious researchers, institutional leaders, companies. This is an emerging field in terms of ethics. So it’s not always obvious what’s the best way of managing a challenge. And sometimes, if you’re really at the front of it, it’s possible that involved parties may overlook or miss ethical challenges, or miss a context that requires rethinking them, or something along those lines.

And to me, the integration of science and ethics in this field is really critical.

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Sara Talpos is a contributing editor at Undark.

EAS Miscellany

Eas miscellany: the digital companion to early american studies: an interdisciplinary journal..

The Ethics of Narrating the Past – Sherri V. Cummings

What are the ethics of narrating the past?

I often wrestle with this question while researching the quotidian lives of African women and their daughters, in slavery and precarious freedom, from the sixteenth to the nineteenth centuries. Saidiya Hartman, in her essay “Venus in Two Acts,” reminds us to respect the “shrieks, the moans, the nonsense and the opacity,” of their experiences despite the want, or rather the need, for an ideal end. 1 Hence, a reclamation takes place as I try to envision what these women and girls experienced, their version of events. I would be mendacious if I said it was (emotionally) easy.  

Take for example –a legal case between a prominent slave merchant and a wig maker in Newport, Rhode Island. At the center of the case is an unnamed sick African girl who arrived in the port city in the fall of 1751. She is an enigma, pushed to the background of a legal case that centers on her labor and monetary value. As I worked my way through the documents I wondered, how did her young mind make sense of her enslaved reality, away from her home and in a world that she did not comprehend? Because the Debt Recovery Act of 1732 allowed for the land, horses, chattel, and slaves of debtors in the colonies to be utilized in the satisfaction of debts, it may have allowed for the seizure of the sick African girl as payment of a debt owed to the slave merchant. Further, there is another question that we will never have the answer to, did she survive her distressing ordeal?

For the most part, during the colonial era enslaved girls were reduced to the bare labor their young bodies could provide . They were subjected to a social death that was very different from what enslaved adults experienced. This social death was facilitated by the severing of kinship relations, the prescription of slavery, colonial laws that categorized them as chattel property, and an apathetic, biased archive. My research involves asking questions such as: what conditions in West Africa caused her enslavement? What laws in colonial New England stripped her of her humanity, making her chattel to be bought for labor and traded to settle a debt?

This line of questioning allows for a more nuanced methodology that considers African cultural and historical elements affected by the transatlantic slave trade, the subsequent bondage of the young girl in Rhode Island and the trauma children faced due to the prescription of slavery that was placed upon them. Moreover, this line of questioning removes the colonial and archival lens that subjected her young life to the violence of abstraction, reducing her to a mere notation in a merchant’s account book or judicial petition. Asking these questions brings her to the fore, opening the chance reclaim her humanity and innocence so that a new narrative can emerge and the historical record can be challenged.

Sherri V. Cummings is an Assistant Professor at Rhode Island College. Her research interests focus on the Atlantic World, Early African American History and Africana Intellectual History. Within this context, she is interested in the lives of African women and their descendants throughout the African diaspora.

Links to Other Facing the Archive from the Present Posts:

Roundtable — Facing the Archive from the Present: A Celebration of Dan Richter’s Work – Tara A. Bynum and Liz Polcha

Beyond Myth-busting – Bradley Dubos

Cultivating Curiosity: Phillis Wheatley in Newport – Michael Monescalchi

• Saidiya Hartman, ‘Venus in Two Acts’, Small Axe 12, no. 2 (June 2008): 2–3, 12. ↩

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Wyoming Reporter Resigns After Using A.I. to Fabricate Quotes

Aaron Pelczar left the Cody Enterprise after a competing newspaper presented him with evidence of made-up quotes in several of his stories.

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By Aimee Ortiz

A novice reporter for the Cody Enterprise in Wyoming resigned this month after he was caught using generative artificial intelligence to help write his stories, resulting in numerous fabricated quotes, according to editors at the paper and published reports.

Aaron Pelczar left the newspaper on Aug. 2 after the Powell Tribune, a competing newspaper, presented him with evidence of made-up quotes in several stories .

CJ Baker, the Powell Tribune staff writer who broke the news, said he regularly read competitors like the Enterprise as a way of “keeping tabs” on what’s going on in his area.

After Mr. Pelczar started at the Enterprise in June, Mr. Baker and his colleagues “kind of noticed there were some weird patterns and phrases that were in his reporting,” like awkward text that seemed like an attempt to sum up the story.

Mr. Baker, a veteran reporter of 15 years, said that the situation escalated after a late July story by Mr. Pelczar had direct quotes that sounded as if they were from a news release rather than spoken aloud in court.

Mr. Baker said that he then began digging, and government agencies that were quoted said they did not know where the quotes came from. Then there was a rather odd quote that was supposed to be from the governor, but it was in his capacity as a rancher and not as the chief executive of the state.

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