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ACCA Applied Knowledge · Business and Technology · Ethical conflicts and dilemmas

An accountant faces an ethical dilemma and decides to apply a structured decision-making framework. Which of the following is the most appropriate FIRST step in most ethical decision-making frameworks?

The first step is to establish the relevant facts. Until the facts are clear, the ethical issue, affected parties and available options cannot be properly identified, so implementing an action, resigning or disclosing to the media would be premature and could breach duties.

  1. AImplement the preferred course of action
  2. BEstablish the relevant facts of the situationCorrect
  3. CConsult the press about the matter
  4. DResign from the employer immediately

Explanation

Most frameworks begin by establishing the relevant facts, because ethical issues, stakeholders and options cannot be properly identified without them. Acting or resigning before the facts are understood would be premature, and going to the press would breach confidentiality.

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