Self-Reflection
Journaling evolved through ETHC2201 to become an effective method which combined
theoretical ethics knowledge with practical applications. The first part of my journal entries
dealt with key aspects from class lessons starting with Consequentialism and Deontology
theory discussions. I began to consciously use these ethical frameworks following the
reflective prompts given to me in my journaling activity. During Week 8 I analyzed Trolley
Dilemma dilemmas involving saving five strangers versus saving my loved one while dealing
with an internship dilemma where I needed to meet team deadlines while caring for my
colleague. The exercise demonstrated that ethical decisions become complex when duties
and outcomes and virtues create contradictory aspects in the decision-making process.
The course revealed the significance of ethical agility which demonstrates that different
ethical theories cannot resolve every dilemma. Through the Trolley Problem I learned how to
assess outcomes according to Consequentialism while following moral rules per Deontology
together with analyzing ethical motives of Virtue Ethics. My critical thinking received
additional structure through utilization of Bloom’s Taxonomy alongside Six Thinking Hats
tools. The application of the Blue Hat for discussion management during Week 10 group
projects decreased disputes in addition to Bloom’s evaluation and analysis levels providing
guidance for HR policy analysis. I better understood how to differentiate cause and effect
relationships (from Week 3 classes) which enhanced my working approach toward
organizational challenges. I wrongfully blamed project delays on my colleague taking breaks
until I discovered system-level factors through evidence analysis which taught me how to
validate assumptions while fighting prejudice.
The obtained insights steered my subsequent actions. I put Virtue Ethics first during a
volunteer activity by demanding truthful disclosure of delays instead of choosing comfort
over facts. The discussion about AI hiring procedures (Week 9) inspired me to use
Consequentialist foresight while arguing against discriminatory algorithms despite their
effectiveness. The Week 10 group contracts replicated Deontology by implementing rule-
based accountability systems however they occasionally limited creativity by demonstrating
that structural controls require flexibility.
I believe these educational experiences will guide my professional development as a human
resource professional. The implementation of Carroll’s Pyramid will guide my policy
development to ensure rules-based ethical standards and legal requirements through AI tool
auditing to block discriminatory hiring systems. The Six Thinking Hats framework serves as a
medium to handle conflicts during negotiations by producing task-centered solutions. I plan
to promote reflective practices including journaling to enable staff who work at the
organization to link their daily decisions with core values thereby fostering accountability
across the organization.
The course demonstrated that ethical approach requires courage to handle conflicting
values through rigorous empathy instead of enforcing strict rules. I dedicate myself to
building workplaces through critical thinking structures and perpetual reflection so integrity
and ethical flexibility lead to individual and corporate achievement.