Context

Ethical considerations are value$-$based. They involve views of right and wrong over which there may be considerable disagreement. Different views of the good are considered dilemmas that can divide societies and result in quite different perspectives on government policy or organisational conduct. Individuals working in public organisations may consequently confront challenges that are structural in nature $-$ where personal values are suppressed.

Organisations are typically hierarchical, with authority distributed unevenly. Any disagreement with those in positions of authority can result in a clash of values $-$ which, in many instances, cannot be expressed due to power imbalances. On the one hand, it can be considered necessary for social order not to dispute the instructions of those in positions of authority. On the other hand, where those in authority are misguided, uninformed or acting improperly, a failure to act may result in organisational and$/$or social harm.

It can be argued that any clash of values in public organisations typically arise for structural reasons $-$ i$.$e$.$ related to the distribution of power. For instance, bad outcomes can potentially arise where the ethical considerations of staff and society are structurally constrained in favour of those in positions of official authority.

Assignment

Using a practical setting of your choosing, offer an approach that can address possible imbalances between the holders of official power $($whether political or in public organisations$)$ and the values of those without such official power $($whether staff or society$).$

Your analysis should be divided into three parts.

First, a conceptual$/$theoretical examination of the issues should be provided. This should take account of the module material. This will provide your conceptual$/$theoretical lens.

Second, the conceptual$/$theoretical lens should be applied to your chosen setting. This part of the analysis should identify the consequences of any misalignment of values arising from structural considerations.

Third, provide a set of strategic proposals on approaches to resolve any misalignment. Note that this part will largely involve critical reasoning and build on the foundation set by the first two parts. Therefore, it is important to avoid speculative proposals.

The analysis you provide needs to make use of a conceptual$/$theoretical lens $-$ which can draw from the entire module. Avoid baseless assertions and personal positions that lack any foundation derived from your lens or practical reasoning. It is$,$ therefore, important to be systematic in developing your approach to the assignment. This assignment is an opportunity to demonstrate your understanding of the module as a whole.

Guidance