Lauren Bloom writes on ethical issues. I follow her blog on a regular basis (you should too). I like the thoughts in this entry. They are certainly relevant when so many workers  are putting their lives on the line in Japan. Some have already died and many have been injured.

Here, she discusses the ethical criteria for decision makers to send people in harm’s way.

James Pilant

An excerpt from the post –

Of course, the world has always been full of dangerous jobs and, luckily for the rest of us, there have always been brave souls willing to do them. Still, if those of us who stay safe at home while heroes risk their lives are going to be able to look ourselves in the mirror, it’s critically important for a few things to happen. First, the folks who go into danger need to do so voluntarily – no coercion allowed. Second, they need to be told honestly in advance how serious the risks appear to be, not misled by falsely optimistic estimates. Third, they need to be given the necessary logistical support – safety equipment, medical attention, escape craft, you name it – to do the job and get out in one reasonably healthy piece.

(this is just a part of the post, you should click on the link and read the whole article – jp)