UTILITY
Utility engages the ideal of balance of benefit over harm for the greatest number. This has been simplistically summarized in the slogan "the greatest good for the greatest number."
Utilitarians use the likely results or consequences of actions as the basis of ethical decision making. They select from the likely consequences the one solution that results in the best solution for the greatest number of individuals. (Lowenstein & Grites, 1993)
JUSTICE
Justice is the principle that all people should be treated equally, with no one receiving privileges or benefits that are not granted to all. Fairness resonates with most individuals and is therefore inherently desirable. (Lowenstein & Grites, 1993) As advisors each student’s challenges should be faced with the same degree of dedication and energy (Fisher, 2005).
RESPECT FOR PERSONS
Respect for persons directs us to treat individuals as ends in themselves. “Some rules that follow from these abstractions are (a) to tell people the truth, which they need if they are to make decisions; (b) to respect their privacy and (c) to support their autonomy.” (Lowenstein & Grites, 1993)
This principle entitles individuals to make their own choices informed by the truth. We should never manipulate individuals to bring about our own goals even if we deem those goals as worthy. (Lowenstein & Grites, 1993) It is important to remember that our concept of ethics is culturally influenced and desirable standards, social norms and the worthiness of a goal may be different for each student as well as each advisor (Chmielewski, 2004).
FIDELITY
Fidelity indicates that we must fulfill the explicit and implied commitments or promises we make. In some cases, fidelity can commit individuals to responsibilities of which were are not aware or of which they do not find pleasing or rewarding. (Lowenstein & Grites, 1993)
