The major key idea of the section is that morality must be applied in every area of life. From businesses to hospitals to war, morality has its place and must be respected. Whether it’s holding the welfare of the employees higher than profits, or not allowing one person to potentially harm themselves to potentially save another, morality must be considered and reflected upon to do what is right for everyone.
Three Important Ideas
Business Ethics: SAS and Jim Goodnight – The major thing I want to remember from the business ethics part of this section is Jim Goodnight and his company, SAS. SAS is a privately owned company with Mr. Goodnight as its CEO and cofounder. He controls just about every aspect of the company. His method of running the company is different from every other company I have seen. When normal companies lower wages and layoff workers to drive up profits, Jim Goodnight pays his employees extremely well, allows them to do just about whatever they want, and provides medical help for the family. He also gives employees access to a recreation center, a medical center, and a discount to a country club. His philosophy is to make the employees as happy as they can be about their job in order to inspire of encourage them to work to their best ability. This method is extremely successful for SAS. I learned that one doesn’t have to be ruthless or harsh towards employees in order to successfully run a company.
Medical Ethics: Possible Donors – I learned that doctors (most doctors) would not allow any person other than a close family member or friend to give up an organ for another person. The reasoning for this by Dr. Whittington was that he wouldn’t allow people to sell their organs in order to help out their financial situation. I learned that people shouldn’t put their own personal health at risk for money. They only time this is acceptable is when one does it to save a friend or relative.
Just War: Jus Ad Bellum – I learned that the prima facie obligation to be nonviolent could be overridden by the absolute obligation to preserve justice. Although it is up to a good Christian to do whatever they can to preserve justice, they are limited because of the obligation to be nonviolent. The Jus Ad Bellum criteria determine whether the necessity to preserve justice is severe enough to need the use of violent actions. These seven reasons justify whether war can be used.
What can I do to assist others in their search to do the morally correct thing in regards to business, health, or just war? How can I shape my conscience now to assist me to do the right moral thing in the future?
How Can I Be A Better and More Faithful Person?
I can shape my conscience so I will be able to do the right moral thing in the future. If I become a CEO, I will chose the moral thing to help out the employees while finding a balance to make sure the company stays successful. If I become a doctor, I will make sure to use the proper decision-making skills to ensure the proper action is occurred. If I’m ever in the position to make a decision regarding the moral actions in a war-like situation, I hope my conscience will guide me to the good Christian response.
