Ethical Decision Matrix
An ethical decision matrix scores each option against ethical criteria as well as against the evidence. Here the criteria are the statistical evidence for the option and 4 lenses from moral philosophy: utility, rights, justice and care. Weighting them makes the trade-off visible, and the matrix shows whether the option the data favour survives once people’s rights and fair treatment carry weight.
The tool opens on a dilemma built on the sample survey data. A chi-square test of ticket type against attendance in event-survey-data.csv finds that VIP ticket holders miss events more often (χ²(2) = 6.09, p = 0.048). The option with the strongest statistical case, overbooking VIP sessions, ranks last once the ethical criteria count. Change the weights and scores, or start blank with a dilemma of your own.
How it works
Each option is scored from 1 (poor) to 5 (strong) on each criterion, and each criterion carries a weight.
The lenses follow the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics’ Framework for Ethical Decision Making (Santa Clara University), which also offers the common good and virtue lenses. Add either as a criterion if your case calls for it.
In the sample, 7 of 30 VIP ticket holders (23.3%) registered and stayed away, against 21 of 124 Standard (16.9%) and 2 of 46 Student (4.3%). The result is significant at the 5% level and rests on a small group, with 1 expected count below 5. Overbooking VIP sessions scores 5 for evidence and 2.45 overall. Reminders and free transfers for all scores 2 for evidence and 4.00 overall. The matrix records a judgement, so the scores are a starting point for argument.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ethical decision matrix?
An ethical decision matrix lists the options for a decision in columns and ethical criteria in rows. Each option is scored on each criterion, the criteria are weighted and the weighted totals rank the options. It makes the reasons for a choice visible and open to challenge.
Which ethical lenses does the tool use?
The sample uses utility, rights, justice and care, from the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics' framework, plus a criterion for the strength of the statistical evidence. You can rename, add or remove criteria.
Why would the statistically strongest option be the ethically weakest?
A significant result describes a pattern in a group. Acting on it can treat every member of that group as if the pattern applied to them, which raises questions of rights and justice even when the statistics are sound.
How do weights change the result?
Weights set how much each criterion counts. Set every weight except Statistical evidence to 0 and the data-led option wins. Give rights and justice their share and the ranking changes. The tool shows the evidence-only winner and its overall rank side by side.
Is the Ethical Decision Matrix free?
Yes. It is free, runs in your browser and keeps your matrix on this device. Export it as PNG, PDF or CSV.