Do positive ends justify unethical means? That is a question we may all have to answer at some point in our lives. We all try to live our lives in an ethical way and uphold our moral values, but there may come a time when we will have to push these values aside to achieve the desired result. However, there is a catch, if we do not succeed, we may be condemned for our actions and ultimately lose.
In the case of George Washington crossing the Delaware on December 25, 1776, to attack enemy troops as they celebrated Christmas; he not only risked his troops but the future of the revolution. If he and his troops attained victory, it would boost the morale of his sick, battle-torn soldiers and lead to more victories later on in the war. If they were defeated, however, morale would sink further. George Washington’s judgment would also come into question because he risked and asked so much from his troops for a battle that had little military significance. …show more content…
However, these are problems we will not likely face in our regular lives and hopefully never face at all. The problems we will face will be more along the lines of needing a good grade in a course and deciding on whether or not to cheat or lying about an unfortunate event to protect ourselves. I don't believe many situations in everyday life are worth compromising your morals. It is not worth the risk to possibly damage your reputation and be condemned for your action, especially in your professional life where it could end your career or even risk someone else being harmed. I feel that for everyday decisions, positive ends do not justify unethical means. Always take the high road and uphold your ethics and moral values; in the end, you will be better off because of
In the case of George Washington crossing the Delaware on December 25, 1776, to attack enemy troops as they celebrated Christmas; he not only risked his troops but the future of the revolution. If he and his troops attained victory, it would boost the morale of his sick, battle-torn soldiers and lead to more victories later on in the war. If they were defeated, however, morale would sink further. George Washington’s judgment would also come into question because he risked and asked so much from his troops for a battle that had little military significance. …show more content…
However, these are problems we will not likely face in our regular lives and hopefully never face at all. The problems we will face will be more along the lines of needing a good grade in a course and deciding on whether or not to cheat or lying about an unfortunate event to protect ourselves. I don't believe many situations in everyday life are worth compromising your morals. It is not worth the risk to possibly damage your reputation and be condemned for your action, especially in your professional life where it could end your career or even risk someone else being harmed. I feel that for everyday decisions, positive ends do not justify unethical means. Always take the high road and uphold your ethics and moral values; in the end, you will be better off because of