Ethics Part 7: Case-Study Frameworks — The Six-Step Method, Exam-Ready Notes

A repeatable skeleton beats brilliance: six steps, every time.

The six steps

• 1 Facts: list given plus inferred; separate symptoms from problem.
• 2 Stakeholders: map with interests and influence.
• 3 Ethical issues and values in tension; name the dilemma.
• 4 Options: minimum three, including status quo; consequences of each.
• 5 Choice with justification: rule-, consequence- and virtue-based reasons.
• 6 Implementation and safeguards: communication, escalation, systemic fix.

Presentation rules

• Use headers matching the steps; short paragraphs; name values, not vibes.
• SoCH: stakeholders, options, conflicts, hierarchy of principles — quick check mnemonic.

Revise in 30 seconds

• Facts → stakeholders → issues → options → choice → action.
• Always give 3+ options with consequences.
• Justify with rules + outcomes + virtue.
• End with a systemic safeguard.