The Ethical Decision-Making Model

Words: 1605
Pages: 7

Introduction
“Most accountants do not realize—until it is perhaps too late—that virtually all aspects of their work have an ethical dimension” (Flanagan & Clarke, 2007). Regardless of how big, or small the decision there are ethical ramifications to it. Accountants are given a large amount of trust and with that comes a responsibility to always act in a manner that is ethical. By making ethical decisions an accountant can prove that they are worthy of that trust. The question then, is how does one determine if the decisions they are making are ethical, or even to the benefit of the company? The Ethical Decision-Making Model can be helpful when making decisions and lays out step by step groundwork for doing just that. To make ethical decisions
…show more content…
For benevolence to be present one must think outside of themselves as it is a purely selfless act that is done without the motivation or thought of profit in mind, whether that profit is monetary or not. Most churches and many various organizations have what they call a “benevolence fund” where they keep funds that they would use to help people that are struggling or going through hard times and could use a little help. Some of the instances when a church member may benefit from their church’s benevolence fund is if their spouse or themselves have an illness, and are traveling a lot then the church may draw from the benevolence fund to present them with gas cards or money for food. Funds may be used to help members if they are behind on a bill such as electricity or water and that utility is about to be shut off, the church will donate the amount necessary to keep the utility turned on. The AICPA even keeps their own benevolence fund! The AICPA Benevolent Fund was established back in 1933 by members to be able to help other members that were going through a temporary period of difficulty where financial support would be needed or beneficial. The types of assistance that the AICPA offers to their members includes living expense, medical expenses, and even expenses that come from medical services that are necessary for dependent children under the age of 21. Of all the times that churches and other organizations such as the AICPA help their members with funds, nothing is ever expected in return. That is the root of what benevolence means. These organizations all help their members as a purely selfless act, in hopes that it will be helpful and the recipient will benefit and not feel indebted in any