TC 1-05
Moral and Ethical Issues
Ethical Dissent
Step 1. If you think dissent is appropriate, go to your
supervisor with some respectful goals.
Verify the order.
Explain your concerns.
Use reasons based on step 3 of the ethical reasoning
process.
Be objective and tactful.
Be sure to keep a record (memorandum for record).
Step 2. Listen to your supervisor.
See if there are alternatives at this point.
Request that the order be modified (to eliminate the source of
your concern) or be confirmed (which may or may not provide
new and convincing information).
Notes: At this point you have two possible responses, at a
minimum. You can comply with the order in spite of reservations, or
you may decide to continue with formal dissent.
Step 3. If you choose to comply, you need to ask yourself
questions.
"Am I sure there is an ethical or legal problem?"
"Have I assessed the consequences of pressing the matter
further?"
"Can I obtain informed, unbiased advice?"
"Am I keeping records of this?"
Note: You may wish to confer with the judge advocate general
(JAG), other chaplains, or a staff member for information or advice.
E-10
10 May 2005
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