“Ethics is the art and discipline of discerning the right, the good, and the fitting action to take, and having the creativity and courage to do it.” – David Miller
At last year’s first annual L.I.F.E. Teaching Conference, Director of the Princeton Faith and Work Initiative David Miller shed light on the critical need for ethical frameworks in professional life.
For over 15 years he’s taught the course “Professional Responsibility Ethics: Succeeding Without Selling Your Soul.” Miller’s research highlights a significant gap in secular education: the exclusion of religious thought from ethics curricula. His course attracts a diverse student body including a notable percentage of atheists and agnostics. It bridges the “meaning gap” by integrating wisdom from various traditions.
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From this wealth of knowledge, he shares the core of his approach: considering the Five Qs of Ethics.
- What is ethics? [9:38] Defining ethics is essential for considering its place in business practices.
- What’s your ethical source? [12:50] This encourages a deeper look into the metaphysical origins of one’s ethical beliefs, including religion.
- What’s your ethical decision-making framework? [13:22] It is vital to incorporate neuroscience, behavioral economics, and psychology to counteract biases.
- What’s your public language? [14:34] Miller advocates for thoughtful and accessible ethical discourse in diverse settings.
- How do you stay ethically fresh? [15:31] Developing healthy habits can prevent ethical missteps.
This framework helps both students and business owners define success beyond financial gain, fostering resilience and integrity.
Key Action Steps for Entrepreneurs:
- Define Your Ethical Compass: Proactively identify the sources informing your ethics and develop a clear ethical decision-making framework for your business. This will guide your choices and help you maintain integrity as your venture grows.
- Cultivate Ethical Freshness: Implement practices and disciplines within your organization that encourage continuous ethical reflection and accountability. This can prevent missteps and build a strong, trustworthy brand.
Key Action Steps for College Professors:
- Integrate Diverse Ethical Perspectives: Consider incorporating a broader range of ethical sources, including religious and philosophical traditions, into your curriculum. This can enrich discussions and provide students with a more holistic understanding of ethical decision-making.
- Emphasize Practical Ethical Frameworks: Move beyond theoretical discussions by teaching actionable frameworks like Miller’s “Five Qs.” Encourage students to apply these to real-world scenarios, helping them develop the tools to navigate future ethical challenges.
