An accountant refuses to hide an error even though disclosing it will upset several colleagues, saying 'it is my duty to report it truthfully whatever the outcome'. Which ethical approach does this reflect?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Deontological ethics
- Step 1: The accountant relies on a duty to be truthful.
- Step 2: Judging an act by duty, not outcome, is deontological.
Answer
Deontological ethics.
Why not the others: Upsetting colleagues contradicts utilitarianism as the greater happiness is not pursued. Teleological approaches look to consequences, the opposite of what the accountant says. The accountant is ignoring colleagues' preferences, not following them.
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