PUBA 6303: Ethics in Public AdministrationWeek 5 of 7

Case Study 1: The Red River Case

There is a raging river which can be crossed only by means of a boat. The only boat is owned and

operated by a person we shall call A (in order to protect the innocent as well as the guilty). On the same

side of the river is a person, X, who is deeply and sincerely in love with a person C on the other side of

the river. X goes to A asking to be taken across the river, offering to pay whatever the charge for the

service. A declines any money, but agrees to take X across the river if X will kill G because they shamed

A publicly. Person X refuses, of course, but argues and then pleads with A to name some other price. A,

however, remains firm. Person X leaves, but returns a second day to seek a way across the river. A

remains as adamant as before. In frustration, X seeks out a third person, B, who hears the situation

sympathetically, agreeing that A is certainly a rogue. But B says, “I have other matters concerning me

just now and am not able to help you.” In desperation, X goes back to A a third time, but only to be met

with the same offer for the trip across the river. X finally agrees to the price and kills G. A then delivers X

across the river as promised. X and C are joyously reunited, until C asks how X got across the river. X

truthfully replies, “I had to kill G to earn the trip across the river.” C replies indignantly, “Out of my life! I

will have nothing to do with one who holds honor and principle so lightly!” X, of course, is frustrated and

desperate again, and appeals to Person D, who replies, “I understand and am deeply sympathetic. I’d do

anything I can to help you.” (The curtain falls.)

Cast: A= Boatman X= Boy C= Girl G= Other person B= Sympathetic person D= Second sympathetic person

Case Study Analysis Template

Case Study Number and Name

Introduction Give a brief review of the case, including the main characters.

State the Ethical issue or problem. Who is/are the “moral agent(s)” in this case? Who is/are the doer(s) of the action(s) in question ? There can be more than one. Was what they did illegal? What ethical system were they following? What philosophical school of thought is that most

PUBA 6303: Ethics in Public AdministrationWeek 5 of 7

aligned with?

Kohlberg stage of Moral Development What stage of Moral Development is each of the main Moral Agent at? What actions, statements or indicators make

you think they are in that stage?

As the Moral Agent(s) did they: (Address each actor identified above)

Act with integrity Provide a high standard of service Act in a way that promotes trust in the profession or office Treat others with respect Take responsibility

What would you have Done? Would you be content for your actions to be made public in the newspapers or on the internet?

Alternative Actions What are some other actions they could have taken in this situation? Are these options in line with ASPA or ICMA codes of Ethics?