IndexIntroductionOverview of Ethical Decision-Making Normative FrameworksUtilitarianismDeontological EthicsVirtue EthicsComparisons and Contrasts of Ethical Decision-Making Normative FrameworksCriticisms and Challenges to Ethical Decision-Making Normative FrameworksConclusionReferencesIntroductionAs a college student, understanding normative ethical decisions- creating frameworks is essential to making responsible choices and ethics in various aspects of life. These frameworks provide a systematic approach to ethical decision making, offering guidance on how individuals should act in morally difficult situations. This essay will provide an overview of normative frameworks of ethical decision making, including utilitarianism, deontological ethics, and virtue ethics, and examine their strengths, weaknesses, and real-life application. Furthermore, it will analyze the similarities, differences and criticisms of these frameworks, ultimately highlighting their significance in guiding ethical decision making. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Overview of Normative Ethical Decision-Making Frameworks Normative ethics refers to the philosophical study of ethical action, which aims to determine what actions are right or wrong. Ethical normative frameworks of decision making are critical in guiding individuals to make morally sound decisions. These frameworks provide principles, rules, and values ​​to help individuals evaluate the morality of their actions and those of others. Major normative ethical frameworks include utilitarianism, deontological ethics, and virtue ethics, each of which offers a unique perspective on ethical decision making. Utilitarianism Utilitarianism is a consequentialist ethical theory that emphasizes the maximization of overall happiness and the minimization of suffering. According to utilitarianism, the moral value of an action is determined by its contribution to the greatest good for the greatest number of people. This framework prioritizes the consequences of actions and evaluates potential benefits and harms. Although utilitarianism provides a clear and practical approach to ethical decision making, it has been criticized for potentially justifying actions that violate individual rights or prioritize the majority over the minority. Deontological ethics, on the other hand, focuses on the intrinsic moral value of actions rather than their consequences. This framework emphasizes the importance of duties, rules and obligations in guiding ethical behavior. Deontological ethics places a strong emphasis on moral coherence, autonomy and respect for the rights of individuals. However, critics argue that deontological ethics can lead to rigid moral rules and fail to take into account the complexity of real-life moral situations. Virtue Ethics Virtue ethics, in contrast to the previous two frameworks, prioritizes the development of virtuous character traits in individuals. This approach seeks to cultivate moral character and promote ethical behavior by focusing on the virtues of honesty, courage, compassion, and justice. Although virtue ethics offers a holistic view of ethical decision making and emphasizes the importance of personal virtues, it has been criticized for lacking clear guidance on specific moral dilemmas and actions. Comparisons and Contrasts Between Ethical Decision-Making Frameworks Although each ethical framework has distinct principles and approaches, there are also similarities and differences between them. All three frameworks aim to guide ethical decision making and prioritize moral conduct, but they differ in their theoretical foundations and practical implications. Utilitarianism gives priority to consequences,.