Ethical dilemma:
The ethics of water restrictions
October 2005
You live in Sydney, Australia, which is currently in the grip of a severe drought.
You have an elderly neighbour who has clearly been working hard over decades to cultivate her very beautiful English-style garden. The garden gives her a great deal of pleasure and is also very much enjoyed by passers by, including yourself. You also believe that having such a lovely garden in the street helps to improve the value of houses nearby.
However, due to the drought your neighbour has had to greatly increase the amount she waters the garden to prevent many of the plants from dying.
Recently water restrictions have been further increased and you are aware that your neighbour is now in contravention of them by watering on days when it is not permitted and using a sprinkler extensively.
The State Government is encouraging people to report neighbours and others who are in breach of the new regulations. Given the seriousness of the drought, what should you do?
Ethical questions:
- What are the issues?
- Who are the stakeholders?
- What should you do?
- What would you do?
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