Ethics expert Kirk O. Hanson has identified “six ethical dilemmas every professional faces,” including “What Is Worthwhile Work?” In thinking about that question, Hanson mentions a number of considerations, including whether the work contributes to human welfare.
a. Will you pursue only those forms of work that contribute to human welfare? If you fail to do so, will you be committing an ethical wrong? Does all work contribute to human welfare? Explain.
b. A 2014 Gallup poll of 30,000 college graduates of all ages who had moved into the workforce were asked if they were “deeply interested” in the work they do. The poll found that those who had majored in business were least interested in their work, regardless of the career path they chose, as compared to those who had majored in social sciences/education, science/engineering, or arts and humanities. Do you expect to be “deeply interested” in your future work? If you choose a career in business, do you expect to be disengaged from your work? If you choose a high-paying career that does not interest you, would that decision constitute an ethical wrong? Explain.