Ethical dilemma:
The ethics of family obligations at Christmas
December 2006
You have had a difficult relationship with your partner's parents in the past and would like to make amends. It appears they wish to do the same as they have very generously invited you and your partner to an all expenses paid trip to a luxury hotel in a holiday location to spend Christmas with them.
However, as you are an only child, if you accept this offer this means that your mother will be spending Christmas day on her own, given that your father passed away three years ago. You have checked and there is no possibility of there being room at the hotel even if you were to pay for your mother to join your partner's family.
Additionally, you have had an extremely hectic year and feel desperate for a holiday to help you relax a little.
Ethical questions:
- What are the issues?
- Who are the stakeholders?
- What should you do?
- What would you do?
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