A2 Unit 3 asks students to apply a particular framework for resolving dilemmas to a given example. The stages of this framework are as follows:

Problems of Definition and Implementation

The first step in the process for resolving dilemmas is to identify problems of definition. Before engaging the dilemma, it is worth considering whether it is sufficiently clearly defined to resolve. It may well be that some of the terms used to express the problem are vague or subjective, for example, and so that the problem needs to be more clearly stated in order to make it manageable.

Continua of Choice

Having established that the dilemma is sufficiently clearly defined to be resolved, the next step is to identify the range of possible responses to it. What are the options between which we must choose? These options may be ordered from the most to the least extreme to form a continuum of choice.

Criteria of Judgement

Once the possible responses to the problem are laid out in a continuum of choice, it is time to consider how best to choose between them. How are the options to be evaluated? What is our ultimate aim in tackling the issue? To answer these questions, criteria of judgement must be established.

Application of Criteria

The background work now done, it is possible to engage the dilemma by applying the criteria of judgement to the various available options. Which aims are best served by which responses to the problem?

Dilemmas and Ethical Principles

Where criteria of judgement conflict in the responses to the problem that they recommend, this gives rise to a dilemma. To resolve the dilemma, it is necessary to assess the relative importance of the criteria of judgement. This may involve an ethical judgement, so students are required to have background knowledge of the various ethical traditions and their principles.