The Little Book of Big Ethical Questions

“My goal in this book is to democratize ethics: to make ethics accessible to people from all backgrounds and all walks of life,” writes ethics consultant Liautaud (The Power of Ethics) in her straightforward compendium. The author tackles 71 ethical questions—ranging from “Should you read your child’s or teenager’s diary or journal?” to “Should robots have rights?”—touching on such topics as family and friends; politics, community, and culture; work; technology; consumer choices; and health. Liautaud gives background for each question and makes the case for opposing viewpoints while refraining from prescribing conclusions. For example, the author asks, “Should we prosecute someone who steals food during a crisis?” and contextualizes the issue by discussing people driven to take food in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina while noting that stealing can hurt those who didn’t contribute to the crisis and may themselves be in dire straits. She also poses the question, “Is purchasing organic food and products a more ethical choice?” and observes that while buying organic is more sustainable, it’s also more expensive, and many can’t afford the cost. Liautaud is admirably agnostic, preferring to show how quandaries can be as helpful as definitive answers. This is a perceptive look at how to better approach thinking about and discussing contemporary dilemmas, whether quotidian or consequential. (Apr.)