Ethical Dilemma ~ Credit Where Credit is Due

You are preparing for the weekly team meeting, during which each team member shares a new idea that they have been working on that week. One idea receives very positive feedback. The idea sticks with you as incredibly innovative, and you remark to your coworker, Aiden, "Wasn't that a great idea that Alex shared?" You are surprised to see that Aiden, who is almost always in a good mood, has a disgruntled look on his face. "I thought so too when I was researching and preparing to present the idea to the team myself," Aiden responds. "Well, I have to say I'm surprised Alex would do something like that. What do you plan to do then?" you ask. You are not quite sure what you would do in this situation either. Although your company is a proponent of collaboration, it is also a proponent of recognizing team members' unique contributions.

Alex has a conflicted look on his face and pauses a moment. "I suppose since I hadn't presented the idea to the team yet, it is not technically my idea. On the other hand, I put a lot of work into researching the idea, and Alex knew this because I shared it with her. I didn't think that she would completely take the idea as her own. But Alex and I work together frequently. I do not want to create an uncomfortable situation." Finally, after a long pause, Aiden says more confidently, "I'm not going to say anything. I think I was overacting."

"Well, it is your decision, I suppose," you hesitantly respond as Aiden is already making his way back to his desk.

Questions

What, if any, are the ethical issues in play in this situation?

Do you agree with how your coworker plans to handle the situation? Why or why not?

What do you think would be the ideal decision in this situation and why? Does the ideal decision differ from what your coworker proposes?

What do you think will be the consequences of your coworker's actions?

How does motivation and intention play a role, for both you and your coworker?