Ethical Dilemma - Definition, How to Solve, and Examples

An ethical dilemma (ethical paradox or moral dilemma) is a problem in the decision-making process between two possible options, neither of which is absolutely acceptable from an ethical perspective.

The biggest challenge of an ethical dilemma is that it does not offer an obvious solution that would comply with ethics al norms. 

The following approaches to solve an ethical dilemma were deduced:

• Refute the paradox (dilemma): The situation must be carefully analyzed. In some cases, the existence of the dilemma can be logically refuted.
• Value theory approach: Choose the alternative that offers the greater good or the lesser evil.
• Find alternative solutions: In some cases, the problem can be reconsidered, and new alternative solutions may arise.