ROCKVIEW UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AND RESEARCH

DISTANCE LEARNING.

COURSE TITLE: ETHICS.

COURSE DESCRIPTION
This course provides an introduction to the fundamental principles and concepts of
ethics, including moral theories, ethical decision-making and the application of
ethics to various fields and professions.

AIM: By the completion of this course, students must be able to;

1. Understand the basic concepts and principles of ethics.

2. Analyze and apply moral theories and ethical framework to real-
world scenarios.
3. Develop critical thinking and decision-making skills in the context
of ethics.
4. Examine the application of ethics to various fields and professions.

TOPICS

-Applied ethics
_Whistleblowing

_Suicide
Applied Ethics:

1. Introduction to Applied Ethics

Applied Ethics is the branch of ethics that examines moral principles and applies
them to real-world issues. It focuses on practical moral problems and ethical
decision-making in various fields such as medicine, business, environment, and
technology.

Definition of Applied Ethics

Applied Ethics is the study of how ethical theories and principles are used to
address specific moral dilemmas in society. It goes beyond theoretical discussions
and deals with practical ethical challenges faced by individuals, professionals, and
policymakers.

2. Branches of Ethics

Ethics is divided into three main branches:

1. Meta-Ethics – Examines the nature and meaning of ethical concepts.

Meta-ethics explores the nature, origin, and meaning of ethical concepts. It does
not focus on what is morally right or wrong but rather on the foundations of
morality itself.

Key Questions in Meta-Ethics:

 What is the meaning of moral terms like "good," "bad," "right," and
"wrong"?
 Are moral values objective (universal) or subjective (relative)?
 Do moral facts exist independently of human beliefs?
 How do we gain moral knowledge?

Major Theories in Meta-Ethics:

1. Moral Realism (Objectivism) – Believes that moral truths exist

independently of human opinions.
o Example: "Murder is wrong" is a fact, not a matter of opinion.
2. Moral Anti-Realism (Subjectivism & Relativism) – Argues that moral
values are human constructs and vary by culture or individual.
 o Example: What is considered "wrong" in one society may be
"acceptable" in another.
3. Emotivism – Claims that moral statements express emotions rather than
facts.
o Example: Saying "stealing is wrong" is equivalent to saying "I dislike
stealing."
4. Prescriptivism – Argues that moral statements function as imperatives,
prescribing how people should act.
o Example: "One ought to be honest" is a command rather than a fact.

2. Normative Ethics
Normative Ethics – Establishes moral standards and rules for right and
wrong. Normative ethics establishes general principles that guide moral
behavior. It seeks to answer "How should people act?" and provides
frameworks to distinguish right from wrong.

Major Theories in Normative Ethics:

1. Consequentialism – Judges actions based on their outcomes.

o Example: An action is right if it produces the most happiness
(Utilitarianism).
o Types:
 Utilitarianism (Jeremy Bentham, John Stuart Mill) –
Maximizes overall happiness.
 Egoism – Focuses on self-interest.
 Altruism – Considers others' interests above one's own.
2. Deontology (Duty-Based Ethics) – Judges actions based on rules and
duties, regardless of consequences.
o Example: Lying is wrong even if it saves a life.
o Key Thinker: Immanuel Kant (Categorical Imperative: Act only
according to principles that can be universalized).
3. Virtue Ethics – Focuses on the character of a person rather than actions.
o Example: A good person will naturally make ethical choices.
o Key Thinker: Aristotle (Virtues like courage, wisdom, and honesty
lead to moral excellence).
4. Contractarianism (Social Contract Theory) – Ethics arises from a social
agreement.
 o Example: Laws exist because individuals consent to rules for mutual
benefit.
o Key Thinkers: Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, Jean-Jacques
Rousseau.
5. Care Ethics (Feminist Ethics) – Emphasizes relationships and compassion
over abstract rules.
o Example: Prioritizing care in ethical decision-making, such as in
medical ethics.

3. Applied Ethics
Applied Ethics – Applies moral principles to real-life situations.

Applied ethics deals with real-world moral issues and how ethical theories
apply to them.

Major Areas in Applied Ethics:

1. Medical Ethics – Issues in healthcare, such as:

o Euthanasia
o Abortion
o Organ donation
o Patient rights
2. Business Ethics – Moral principles in business, including:
o Corporate social responsibility
o Fair trade
o Ethical labor practices
3. Environmental Ethics – Ethics concerning nature and sustainability, such
as:
o Climate change
o Animal rights
o Conservation ethics
4. Legal and Political Ethics – Examines justice and rights in governance,
including:
o Human rights
o Capital punishment
o War ethics
5. Technology Ethics – Ethical concerns in technology and AI, such as:
 o Privacy issues
o Cybersecurity
o Artificial intelligence.

4. Descriptive Ethics (Sometimes Considered a Fourth Branch)

Descriptive ethics studies how people actually behave in moral situations rather
than prescribing how they should behave.

 It is based on psychology, sociology, and anthropology.

 It looks at cultural differences in moral beliefs.
 It does not make moral judgments but observes ethical trends.

Conclusion

Ethics is a vast field that explores both abstract moral concepts (Meta-Ethics) and
practical moral decision-making (Applied Ethics). Normative ethics provides the
foundation for determining moral behavior, while Descriptive Ethics examines
how morality functions in society. Together, these branches help us navigate
complex ethical dilemmas in everyday life.

IMPORTANCE OF APPLIED ETHICS

1. Guides Moral Decision-Making

 Helps individuals and professionals make ethically sound decisions.

 Provides frameworks like utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics to
assess moral dilemmas.
 Example: A doctor deciding whether to perform euthanasia based on ethical
guidelines.

2. Promotes Fairness and Justice

 Ensures equal treatment of individuals in society.

 Helps in formulating laws and policies that protect human rights.
 Example: Legal ethics ensure fair trials and protection against
discrimination.
3. Ensures Professional Integrity

 Encourages honesty, responsibility, and trustworthiness in professions.

 Prevents corruption, fraud, and unethical behavior in workplaces.
 Example: Journalists following ethical reporting standards to avoid
spreading misinformation.

4. Protects Human Rights and Dignity

 Applied ethics defends fundamental human rights such as freedom, equality,

and privacy.
 Helps prevent exploitation and discrimination.
 Example: Business ethics ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions
for employees.

5. Enhances Trust in Institutions

 Ethical practices build public confidence in institutions like healthcare,

government, and media.
 Example: A transparent and accountable government earns citizens' trust.

6. Helps Address Ethical Dilemmas in Medicine and Healthcare

 Guides ethical decision-making in medical practice, biotechnology, and

research.
 Helps resolve issues related to abortion, euthanasia, organ donation, and
patient rights.
 Example: Informed consent ensures that patients make voluntary and
educated medical decisions.

7. Encourages Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

 Businesses are encouraged to act ethically and consider their impact on

society and the environment.
 Prevents unethical practices like child labor, environmental pollution, and
consumer exploitation.
 Example: A company reducing its carbon footprint to combat climate
change.

8. Ensures Ethical Use of Technology

  Guides ethical considerations in artificial intelligence, data privacy, and
genetic engineering.
 Prevents misuse of emerging technologies that may harm society.
 Example: Ethical AI development to avoid bias and discrimination in
machine learning algorithms.

9. Promotes Environmental Sustainability

 Encourages responsible use of natural resources and sustainable

development.
 Addresses moral responsibilities towards future generations.
 Example: Environmental ethics advocating against deforestation and
excessive carbon emissions.

10. Strengthens Ethical Leadership and Governance

 Ethical leadership ensures accountability, transparency, and fairness in

governance.
 Helps policymakers create laws that align with moral values.
 Example: Political ethics guiding leaders to avoid corruption and serve the
public interest.

11. Balances Individual Rights and Social Good

 Helps in resolving conflicts between personal freedoms and the welfare of

society.
 Example: The ethical debate over vaccine mandates versus personal
autonomy.

12. Helps in Conflict Resolution

 Provides ethical frameworks to resolve disputes in personal, professional,

and legal settings.
 Example: Mediation in workplace conflicts using ethical principles of
fairness and respect.

13. Improves Education and Research Integrity

 Encourages academic honesty and prevents plagiarism, cheating, and

research misconduct.
 Example: Universities enforcing strict policies against academic dishonesty.
14. Prepares Society for Future Ethical Challenges

 Helps address new ethical issues arising from advancements in science,

technology, and globalization.
 Example: Ethical considerations in human gene editing and artificial
intelligence ethics.

3. Conclusion

Applied ethics plays a crucial role in shaping a just, fair, and morally responsible
society. It guides individuals, professionals, and institutions in making ethical
decisions that promote human dignity, fairness, and sustainability. As new ethical
challenges arise, applied ethics continues to evolve, ensuring that society navigates
moral dilemmas with wisdom and integrity.

1. Principles of Applied Ethics

Applied ethics is guided by fundamental ethical principles that help individuals,

professionals, and organizations navigate moral dilemmas. These principles
ensure fairness, justice, and responsible decision-making across various fields
such as medicine, business, law, and technology. Below is a detailed outline of
the key principles of applied ethics:

1. Autonomy (Respect for Individual Freedom)

o Individuals have the right to make their own decisions.

o Emphasizes informed consent and personal choice.
o Example: A patient has the right to refuse medical treatment.

2. Beneficence (Doing Good)

o Actions should promote well-being and benefit others.

 o Encourages kindness, generosity, and helping those in need.
o Example: Doctors prescribing medicine that improves a patient’s
health.

3. Non-Maleficence (Do No Harm)

o Avoid causing harm or suffering to others.

o Ensures that actions do not create unnecessary risks.
o Example: A company avoiding the release of a harmful product.

4. Justice (Fairness & Equality)

o Fair and equal treatment for all individuals.

o Requires the fair distribution of resources, rights, and responsibilities.
o Example: Ensuring equal access to healthcare regardless of income.

5. Utility (Greatest Good for the Greatest Number)

o Decisions should maximize overall happiness and minimize harm.

o A core principle of Utilitarianism.
o Example: Governments implementing policies that benefit the
majority.

6. Veracity (Truthfulness & Honesty)

o Being honest and transparent in communication.

o Essential in professions like medicine, journalism, and business.
o Example: A company disclosing product risks to customers.

7. Fidelity (Loyalty & Trustworthiness)

o Maintaining commitments and upholding trust.

 o Important in professional relationships (e.g., doctor-patient, employer-
employee).
o Example: Lawyers keeping client information confidential.

8. Accountability (Responsibility for Actions)

o Individuals and organizations must take responsibility for their

decisions.
o Ensures ethical and legal consequences for actions.
o Example: A company admitting and correcting an environmental
violation.

9. Respect for Human Dignity

o Every individual deserves respect and ethical consideration.

o Protects vulnerable groups (e.g., children, disabled individuals).
o Example: Treating employees with respect and fairness in the
workplace.

10. Integrity (Moral Uprightness)

o Upholding ethical values even in difficult situations.

o Essential in leadership, governance, and professional ethics.
o Example: A politician refusing to accept bribes.

11. Proportionality (Balancing Benefits & Risks)

o Ethical actions should have more benefits than harms.

o Ensures that responses are appropriate to the situation.
o Example: Ethical use of force in law enforcement.

12. Sustainability (Long-Term Ethical Responsibility)

 o Ethical decisions should consider long-term environmental and social
impacts.
o Encourages sustainable practices in business, industry, and
development.
o Example: Companies using renewable energy to reduce pollution.

13. Respect for Cultural Diversity

o Acknowledges and respects different moral perspectives.

o Avoids imposing one’s values on others.
o Example: Adapting medical treatments to align with cultural beliefs.

14. Ethical Relativism (Context Matters in Ethics)

o Moral decisions depend on societal and cultural contexts.

o Recognizes that ethical standards vary across cultures and situations.
o Example: Different views on euthanasia in different countries.

15. Ethical Prudence (Practical Wisdom in Decision-Making)

o Balancing ethical principles with real-world practicality.

o Encourages thoughtful, well-reasoned decisions.
o Example: A government balancing economic growth with
environmental protection.

conclusion

These principles of applied ethics provide a framework for ethical decision-

making in different fields. They guide individuals and organizations in
making responsible choices that promote fairness, justice, and overall well-
being.

Major Areas of Applied Ethics

Applied ethics is the branch of ethics that deals with the practical application of
moral principles to real-world issues. It provides guidance on moral dilemmas in
various fields, ensuring ethical decision-making in everyday life, professions, and
public policies. The major areas of applied ethics include:

1. Medical Ethics (Bioethics)

Medical ethics deals with moral issues in healthcare, medicine, and biotechnology.
It ensures that medical practices respect human rights, dignity, and well-being.

Key Issues in Medical Ethics

 Abortion: Debate over the rights of the unborn child vs. a woman's right to
choose.
 Euthanasia & Assisted Suicide: Ethical concerns regarding end-of-life
decisions.
 Patient Autonomy & Informed Consent: Patients have the right to make
informed choices about their treatment.
 Confidentiality & Privacy: Protecting patient information and medical
records.
 Organ Transplantation & Allocation: Ethical concerns over donor consent
and organ distribution fairness.
 Genetic Engineering & Cloning: Moral implications of altering human
genetics and cloning life forms.

Case Example:

 A patient refuses life-saving treatment based on religious beliefs. Should

doctors respect their autonomy, or should they intervene to save the patient's
life?

2. Business Ethics

Business ethics focuses on moral principles in corporate behavior, trade, and

financial practices. It promotes fairness, transparency, and social responsibility in
business operations.

Key Issues in Business Ethics

  Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Companies' duty to contribute to
social and environmental well-being.
 Fair Wages & Employee Rights: Ethical concerns over labor exploitation,
fair pay, and working conditions.
 Consumer Protection: Honesty in advertising, product safety, and
preventing false claims.
 Bribery & Corruption: Ethical concerns over corporate dishonesty and
manipulation.
 Environmental Sustainability: Businesses’ responsibility to minimize
pollution and reduce environmental damage.

Case Example:

 A company discovers a defect in its product. Should it recall the product,

causing financial loss, or continue selling it, risking consumer safety?

3. Environmental Ethics

Environmental ethics examines human responsibilities toward nature, ecosystems,

and non-human life. It encourages sustainable practices and ethical treatment of the
environment.

Key Issues in Environmental Ethics

 Climate Change: Ethical responsibility to reduce carbon footprints and

prevent global warming.
 Deforestation & Biodiversity Loss: Balancing economic growth with
conservation of wildlife and forests.
 Animal Rights & Testing: Moral concerns about using animals for
scientific research and entertainment.
 Pollution & Waste Management: Ethical duty to reduce air, water, and
land pollution.
 Sustainable Development: Promoting economic growth without harming
future generations.

Case Example:

 Should a government allow logging in a forest to boost the economy, even if

it leads to habitat destruction?
4. Technology & Artificial Intelligence (AI) Ethics

With advancements in technology, ethical concerns have emerged regarding

privacy, security, and AI decision-making.

Key Issues in Technology Ethics

 Data Privacy & Surveillance: The ethics of collecting personal data and
mass surveillance.
 Cybersecurity & Hacking: Moral concerns over hacking, data breaches,
and digital crimes.
 Artificial Intelligence & Automation: AI replacing human jobs, decision-
making biases, and ethical AI usage.

. Genetic Engineering & Human Enhancement: Ethical concerns over

gene editing (e.g., CRISPR) and designer babies. CRISPR stands for Clustered
Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats.

It refers to a specialized region of DNA found in bacteria and archaea that contains
short, repetitive sequences. CRISPR is widely known for its use in gene editing,
particularly with the CRISPR-Cas9 system, which allows scientists to precisely
modify DNA in organisms.

 Social Media & Misinformation: Ethical responsibility of platforms to

prevent the spread of fake news.

Case Example:

 A company develops AI for hiring employees but later discovers it has

biased algorithms favoring certain groups. Should they stop using it or try to
fix it?

5. Media & Journalism Ethics

Media ethics ensures responsible reporting, truthfulness, and fairness in journalism

and mass communication.

Key Issues in Media Ethics

  Freedom of Speech vs. Hate Speech: Defining the limits of free
expression.
 Fake News & Misinformation: The responsibility of media to provide
accurate and unbiased information.
 Privacy vs. Public Interest: Balancing individual privacy rights with
journalistic reporting.
 Ethical Advertising & Marketing: Ensuring honesty in advertising and
preventing manipulation.
 Sensationalism & Bias: The ethics of news exaggeration to attract
viewership.

Case Example:

 A journalist has access to private information about a politician. Should they

publish it in the public interest or respect privacy?

6. Legal & Political Ethics

Legal and political ethics govern moral behavior in lawmaking, governance, and
justice systems.

Key Issues in Legal & Political Ethics

 Human Rights & Civil Liberties: Protecting individual freedoms and

equality.
 Capital Punishment (Death Penalty): The morality of sentencing criminals
to death.
 War & Military Ethics: Just War Theory and ethical military interventions.
 Whistleblowing: Ethical dilemmas of exposing government or corporate
wrongdoing.
 Judicial Fairness & Corruption: Ensuring an unbiased legal system.

Case Example:

 Should a government allow torture to extract information from terrorists if it

could save lives?

7. Education Ethics
Education ethics deals with moral principles in teaching, learning, and academic
institutions.

Key Issues in Education Ethics

 Academic Integrity: Preventing plagiarism, cheating, and intellectual

dishonesty.
 Equity in Education: Ensuring equal access to quality education for all.
 Teacher-Student Ethics: Avoiding conflicts of interest and maintaining
professionalism.
 Censorship & Curriculum Design: Balancing controversial subjects in
education.
 Ethical Use of AI & Technology in Education: Addressing plagiarism, AI-
assisted learning, and fairness in assessments.

Case Example:

 Should schools ban books containing controversial topics, or should students

have access to all perspectives?

8. Sports Ethics

Sports ethics examines moral issues in athletic competition, fair play, and the role
of sports in society.

Key Issues in Sports Ethics

 Doping & Performance Enhancement: Ethical concerns over the use of

steroids and drugs in sports.
 Fair Play & Cheating: Addressing issues like match-fixing, corruption, and
referee bias.
 Gender & Inclusivity in Sports: Fairness in competition and inclusion of
transgender athletes.
 Commercialization & Sponsorship Ethics: The influence of money in
sports.
 Violence in Sports: Ethical concerns over aggressive behavior and player
safety.

Case Example:
  Should a transgender woman be allowed to compete in women’s sports,
considering potential physical advantages?

9. Ethics in Research & Science

Research ethics ensures that scientific studies follow ethical principles, protecting
participants and maintaining integrity.

Key Issues in Research Ethics

 Informed Consent in Experiments: Participants must voluntarily agree to

take part in research.
 Ethical Treatment of Animals in Research: Avoiding unnecessary harm in
animal testing.
 Fabrication & Falsification of Data: Preventing unethical manipulation of
scientific findings.
 Human Trials & Medical Testing: Ethical concerns over drug trials on
vulnerable populations.
 Conflicts of Interest in Research: Ensuring objectivity and transparency in
funding and study outcomes.

Case Example:

 A pharmaceutical company discovers harmful side effects of its new drug

but delays releasing the information. Is this ethical?

Conclusion

Applied ethics plays a crucial role in shaping moral decision-making across

various fields. From medicine and business to technology and politics, ethical
principles guide individuals and organizations in making responsible choices.
Addressing ethical challenges helps build a fair, just, and sustainable society.

Key Takeaways
✔ Applied ethics ensures ethical decision-making in real-world situations.
✔ Medical, business, environmental, and AI ethics are some major fields.
✔ Each field faces unique ethical dilemmas requiring careful moral
evaluation.
✔ Ethical theories such as utilitarianism and deontology guide applied ethics.
✔ Understanding applied ethics helps promote justice, fairness, and
responsibility.

Whistleblowing

1. Introduction to Whistleblowing

Whistleblowing refers to the act of reporting unethical, illegal, or harmful

activities within an organization to internal or external authorities. The
individual who exposes such wrongdoing is called a whistleblower.

Key Definitions

o Whistleblower: A person who reports misconduct, fraud, corruption,

or violations of laws, regulations, or ethical standards.
o Whistleblowing: The act of exposing wrongdoing in an organization.
o Internal Whistleblowing: Reporting misconduct within the
organization (e.g., to a manager or compliance officer).
o External Whistleblowing: Reporting misconduct to external
authorities (e.g., media, law enforcement, regulatory agencies).

2. Types of Whistleblowing

o Internal Whistleblowing:
 Reporting misconduct within the organization.
 Examples: Reporting unethical behavior to a supervisor, HR
department, or internal compliance body.
o External Whistleblowing:
  Reporting misconduct outside the organization to law
enforcement, regulatory bodies, or the media.
 Examples: Reporting corporate fraud to the SEC or exposing
government corruption to journalists.
o Personal Whistleblowing:
 When the wrongdoing directly affects the whistleblower (e.g.,
workplace harassment, discrimination).
o Impersonal Whistleblowing:
 When the whistleblower is not personally affected but reports
unethical or illegal activities affecting others (e.g.,
environmental violations, financial fraud).

3. Ethical and Legal Aspects of Whistleblowing

Ethical Justifications for Whistleblowing

o Protecting the public from harm.

o Upholding honesty and integrity.
o Promoting accountability and transparency.
o Preventing financial losses and organizational damage.
o Encouraging ethical business practices.

Legal Protections for Whistleblowers

Many countries have laws that protect whistleblowers from retaliation.

Examples include:

In Zambia, the legal protection for whistleblowers is provided under the

following laws:

 Whistleblower Protection Act No. 10 of 2018: This act provides

protection to whistleblowers who report wrongdoing, corruption, or
other unlawful activities in the public and private sectors.
 Anti-corruption Commission Act No. 38 of 2010: Section 58 of this
Act provides protection to whistleblowers who report corruption or
other unlawful activities to the Ant-corruption commission.

o United States: Whistleblower Protection Act (WPA), Sarbanes-Oxley

Act, Dodd-Frank Act.
 o United Kingdom: Public Interest Disclosure Act (PIDA).
o European Union: EU Whistleblower Protection Directive.
o India: Whistle Blowers Protection Act.
o Kenya: The Bribery Act.

These laws aim to encourage individuals to report wrongdoing

without fear of retaliation or victimization.

Some key features of the whistleblower’s protection Act include:

_ Protection of whistleblowers’ identities.

_ Prohibition of retaliation or victimization.

_Provision of immunity from civil or criminal liability.

_Establishment of whistleblowers protection committee to oversee the

implementation of the Act.

It is worth nothing that while these laws provide important protections

for whistleblowers, their effectiveness can depend on various factors,
including the strength of institutions and the political will to enforce
them.

Consequences of Whistleblowing

Positive:

o Exposure of corruption and fraud.

o Improved ethical culture in organizations.
o Prevention of harm to the public.

Negative:

o Retaliation, job loss, harassment.

o Legal battles and financial difficulties.
o Emotional and psychological stress.
o Damage to professional reputation.
4. Steps in Whistleblowing

o Identify the Misconduct: Ensure the issue involves illegal, unethical,

or harmful behavior.
o Gather Evidence: Collect documents, emails, records, or witness
testimonies to support the claim.
o Follow Internal Reporting Channels: Report the misconduct to a
supervisor, HR, or internal audit department.
o Seek Legal Advice: Consult a lawyer or legal expert before
proceeding with external whistleblowing.
o Report to External Authorities: If internal channels fail or pose a
risk, report to regulators, law enforcement, or the media.
o Ensure Anonymity and Protection: Use whistleblower protection
programs if available.
o Monitor the Outcome: Follow up on actions taken to address the
issue.

5. Whistleblower Protection and Retaliation

Forms of Retaliation

o Job termination or demotion.

o Workplace harassment or discrimination.
o Legal action or defamation.
o Loss of professional credibility.
o Blacklisting from future employment.

How to Protect Whistleblowers

o Anonymous reporting mechanisms (e.g., hotlines, secure emails).

o Strong whistleblower protection laws.
o Encouraging a culture of transparency and accountability.
o Legal assistance and support programs.

7. Challenges and Dilemmas in Whistleblowing

Moral Dilemmas
 o Loyalty vs. Ethics: Balancing loyalty to the organization with moral
responsibility to report wrongdoing.
o Personal Risk vs. Public Good: Weighing potential retaliation
against the benefits of exposing misconduct.
o Confidentiality vs. Transparency: Navigating legal and ethical
constraints when disclosing sensitive information.

Barriers to Whistleblowing

o Fear of retaliation or job loss.

o Lack of awareness about reporting mechanisms.
o Organizational culture discouraging dissent.
o Weak legal protection for whistleblowers.

8. Encouraging Ethical Whistleblowing

o Strong Whistleblower Policies: Organizations should establish clear

policies to protect whistleblowers.
o Ethical Leadership: Leaders should promote a culture of integrity
and openness.
o Confidentiality Assurances: Secure and anonymous reporting
mechanisms should be provided.
o Legal and Psychological Support: Whistleblowers should have
access to legal aid and counseling.

9. Conclusion

Whistleblowing plays a crucial role in maintaining transparency,

accountability, and ethical standards in organizations. While it comes with
risks, legal protections and ethical frameworks help ensure that
whistleblowers can report misconduct safely. Encouraging a culture that
values honesty and accountability is essential for a just and responsible
society.

Key Takeaways
 ✔ Whistleblowing exposes unethical or illegal activities in organizations.
✔ It can be internal (within the organization) or external (to authorities
or the media).
✔ Whistleblowers face risks such as retaliation, job loss, and legal
issues.
✔ Legal protections exist, but enforcement varies by country.
✔ A strong ethical culture helps encourage responsible whistleblowing

2. Suicide: Complete Notes

1. Introduction to Suicide

Suicide is the act of intentionally ending one's own life. It is a major public
health concern and is influenced by psychological, social, economic, and
biological factors. Suicide is preventable with the right support, intervention,
and awareness.

3. Definition of Suicide

o Suicide: Is death caused by injuring oneself with the intent to die.

o Suicide: Ending your own life.
o Suicide: The deliberate act of causing one’s own death.
o Suicidal Ideation: Thinking about, considering, or planning suicide.
o Suicide Attempt: A non-fatal self-directed act with the intent to die.
o Completed Suicide: A fatal self-inflicted act resulting in death.

Suicide is said to be sometimes a way for people to escape pain or

suffering. When someone ends their own life, we say that they “died
by suicide.”

3. Causes and Risk Factors of Suicide

Suicide is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors.

Psychological Factors

o Mental Health Disorders: Depression, bipolar disorder,

schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders.
o Substance Abuse: Alcohol and drug addiction increase suicide risk.
o Hopelessness: Feelings of despair and lack of purpose.
o Personality Traits: Impulsivity, aggression, or low self-esteem.

Social and Environmental Factors

o Family Issues: Abuse, neglect, domestic violence, or parental

separation.
o Relationship Problems: Breakups, divorce, or loss of a loved one.
o Bullying and Social Isolation: Cyberbullying, workplace harassment,
and lack of social support.
o Financial Stress: Unemployment, poverty, or overwhelming debt.
o Cultural and Religious Factors: Cultural stigma, religious conflicts,
or beliefs about suicide.

Biological Factors

o Genetic Factors: Family history of suicide or mental illness.

o Neurological Factors: Chemical imbalances in the brain, such as low
serotonin levels.

Situational Factors

o Traumatic Events: War, natural disasters, physical or sexual abuse.

o Chronic Illness and Pain: Terminal diseases or severe chronic pain
can lead to suicidal thoughts.
o Legal or Criminal Issues: Facing imprisonment or legal
consequences.

4. Warning Signs of Suicide

Recognizing warning signs can help prevent suicide.

Behavioral Signs:
 o Giving away personal belongings.
o Withdrawing from friends and family.
o Engaging in reckless or self-destructive behavior.
o Sudden mood swings or extreme behavior changes.
o Increased use of alcohol or drugs.

Emotional Signs:

o Expressing feelings of hopelessness, guilt, or shame.

o Talking about being a burden to others.
o Saying things like “I wish I were dead” or “Everyone would be better
off without me.”
o Severe mood swings, agitation, or aggression.

Physical Signs:

o Loss of appetite or changes in eating habits.

o Lack of sleep or oversleeping.
o Chronic fatigue or loss of energy.

5. Suicide Prevention Strategies

Suicide is preventable, and multiple approaches can help reduce the risk.

Individual Strategies:

o Seeking professional help (therapy, counseling, medication).

o Building strong social connections and support systems.
o Practicing self-care (exercise, healthy diet, sleep, stress management).

Community-Based Strategies:

o Awareness and Education: Teaching people about mental health and

suicide warning signs.
o Helplines and Crisis Centers: 24/7 suicide prevention hotlines and
support groups.
o School and Workplace Programs: Mental health education and
support services.
Government and Policy Strategies:

o Restricting Access to Lethal Means: Reducing availability of

firearms, poisons, and high-risk locations.
o Improving Mental Health Services: Making mental health care
affordable and accessible.
o Legal Protections: Anti-bullying laws, workplace mental health
policies, and crisis intervention.

6. Suicide Intervention and Crisis Response

How to Help Someone Who Is Suicidal

o Recognize the Signs: Pay attention to behavioral and emotional

changes.
o Ask Directly: “Are you thinking about suicide?” – Asking does not
increase the risk.
o Listen Without Judgment: Offer emotional support without
minimizing their feelings.
o Encourage Professional Help: Suggest talking to a counselor,
therapist, or doctor.
o Ensure Their Safety: Remove access to harmful objects or
substances.
o Follow Up: Stay in touch and check on their well-being regularly.

Emergency Response:

o If someone is in immediate danger, call emergency services or a

crisis hotline.
o Do not leave a suicidal person alone.
o Seek help from a mental health professional or support system.

7. Effects of Suicide on Families and Society

Impact on Families:

o Emotional trauma, grief, and guilt.

 o Strained relationships and family breakdowns.
o Financial burdens due to medical and funeral expenses.

Impact on Society:

o Increased mental health stigma.

o Economic costs due to loss of productivity and healthcare expenses.
o Greater need for mental health services and crisis intervention
programs.

8. Myths and Facts About Suicide

Myth Fact
People who talk about suicide areTalking about suicide is a cry for help
just seeking attention. and should always be taken seriously.
Only people with mental illnessesWhile mental illness is a factor, other
commit suicide. stressors can also lead to suicide.
Most people show warning signs before
Suicide happens without warning.
attempting suicide.
Asking someone about suicide Talking openly about suicide can
will put the idea in their head. actually help prevent it.
Once someone decides to die by Many people reconsider if they receive
suicide, nothing can stop them. timely help and support.

9. Suicide Statistics and Global Perspective

o According to the WHO (World Health Organization):

 Over 700,000 people die by suicide every year.
 Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among 15-29-
year-olds.
 More than 75% of suicides occur in low- and middle-income
countries.
 Men are more likely to die by suicide, while women are
more likely to attempt it.
10. Conclusion

Suicide is a serious but preventable public health issue. By recognizing the

warning signs, offering support, and improving mental health resources, we
can help reduce suicide rates. Open conversations, education, and access to
mental health care play a crucial role in preventing suicide and saving lives.

Key Takeaways

✔ Suicide is preventable with timely intervention and support.

✔ Recognizing warning signs and seeking help can save lives.
✔ Myths and stigma around suicide must be challenged.
✔ Helplines and professional mental health services are essential
resources.

Self-assessment Exercises

1. What do you understand by professional ethics?

2. Identify the three Branches of philosophical ethics and explain each of
them briefly.

3. What do you understand by egoism?

4. Explain the difference between psychological egoism and ethical
egoism.
5. Narrate the meaning of utilitarianism.
6. Make your list of the virtues you think everyone should possess and
explain on each.
7. Explain the teacher’s expected behavior and relationship with
students, colleagues, school administration and parents in line with the
teacher’s code of conduct.
8. From the teacher’s code of conduct, discuss the duties and
responsibility of a professional teacher.
9. Discuss the dimensions of work ethics.
10.Consider this possible situation: A couple who have been married
for ten years visits a gynecologist for infertility treatment. The woman
 has a history of irregular menstrual cycles. The gynecologist treats the
patient to stimulate the ovaries without success. After a few cycles of
treatment, the patient decides to see the gynecologist on her own. She
reveals that she had never had cycles (primary amenorrhea). The
patient does not wish her clinical condition to be discussed with her
husband because she is concerned about the consequences in relation
to her marriage. Considering that the physician was consulted by the
couple for fertility treatment, what should the physician do?
a. Apply the ethical theories to this possible situation. How might
the four key ethical principles for the medical profession be
applied?
b. Is this a case of respect for autonomy and confidentiality? If so,
are there sufficient grounds to ignore her wishes?
c. What other consideration might apply?
d. What is your conclusion about the best course of action? Give
your reasons.
11.Elaborate the ethical issue of confidentiality in the medical profession.
12.Discuss the nature of business ethics
13.Examine the benefits of business ethics.
14.Define whistle-blowing.
15.Define the following and give an example on each:
a. Internal whistle-blowing.
b. External whistle-blowing.
c. Personal whistle-blowing.
d. Impersonal whistle-blowing.
e. Private sector whistle-blowing.
f. Public sector whistle-blowing.

16.Examine the motivation for whistle-blowing

ASSIGNMENTS
1. From a Kantian perspective, critically resolve at least four main
ethical dilemmas in the teaching profession.
2. Critically examine the notion of confidentiality across the professions
and its limits.

NOTE! ALL ASSIGNMENTS MUST BE TYPED.

MUST HAVE, 1 COVER PAGE, 3 CONTENT PAGES OF
INFORMATION AND 1 REFERRENCE PAGE.
 ALL TOGETHER 5PAGES EACH ASSIGNMENT
DUE DATE 15TH APRIAL 2025

LECTURER, MADAM DAKA .B