For this essay you are to compare and contrast two proposed solutions to a relatively normal
ethical dilemma. Compare and contrast the advantages and problems with both Chris and
Sonjas reasoning. Once youve done that, explain what solution *you* would embrace if you
were in the position to decide what Chris and Sonja do: please note, your solution does not
actually have to be the same as either of theirs. Also remember that you are trying to convince
others to adopt your solution: so create an argument as though youre trying to convince
Chris/Sonja to change their view.
Last, address any information not found in the prompt which may change your solution (the
age of the children, whether they know about the deal, or even whether they will want to share
their console with their father).
Finally, remember, If you use any direct text from either the textbook or any external sources,
be certain to quote that text properly as all submission will be automatically checked for
plagiarism in Blackboard through SafeAssign. Also, include references/citations for any works
which influenced your thinking including the course texts. (there are many sources available
to help you with citations, as a quick reference, Purdue universitys Online Writing Lab or
O.W.L website can be handy.)
Question: Chris and Sonja went shopping to buy Christmas presents for their three sons; Mathew,
Mark, and Luke. The loving parents always tried to treat their children equally. This year, they had
budgeted to spend $100 on each of them.
For once it looked as if their shopping would be trouble free, for they soon found what they
were looking for: handheld PlayGame game consoles for $100 each. Just as they were about to take
three to the checkout, Chris noticed a special offer. If you bought two of the new, top of the line,
PlayGamePlusMax consoles at $150 each, then you would get an original PlayGame free. They could
spend the same amount of money and get superior goods.
We cant do that, said Sonja. That would be unfair, since one of the boys would be getting
less than the others.
But Sonja, said Chris, excited at the thought of borrowing one of his sons new toys, how can
it be unfair? This way none of them gets a worse gift than he would have done, and two of them get
better. But if we dont take the offer, two of the kids are worse off than they would otherwise be.
I want them all to be equal, replied Sonja.
Even if it means making them worse off?
So, which of the two parents is being more ethical, and what is the just or fair thing to do in this circumstance.
