The Trolley Problem — Workplace Edition

Scenario

You manage a team of 5 engineers. A high-priority project is failing. You can either: (A) let the team keep trying and risk a public launch failure that could harm all 5 careers, or (B) bring in an outside contractor immediately, which will visibly signal to leadership that the team couldn't deliver, likely harming one junior engineer who led the work.

Question

What framing BEST captures the core ethical tension in this decision?

1. A.Consequentialist vs. deontological: maximizing outcomes vs. honoring commitments to the team
2. B.Short-term vs. long-term thinking: quick fix vs. building team capability
3. C.Fairness vs. efficiency: protecting one person vs. protecting the group
4. D.Individual accountability vs. collective responsibility: who takes the blame