Log in
Building the Knowledge Base of Nonprofit Management:
A Searchable Database
Ethical guidelines for cutback management: a preliminary approach
Abstract
The dilemmas of program retrenchment are highlighted by indicating its impact on clients. It is argued that ethical guidelines must be developed along with technology for managing dwindling resources. The central focus of the discussion is the ethical nature of problems of resource distribution as they relate to management in an era of scarce resources. After a contrast is made between utilitarian and egalitarian theories, John Rawls's theoretical perspective is used to develop a framework for deriving six ethical guidelines for retrenchment for use by administrators based on principles of social justice. Within this framework, unequal distribution is justified only when it is in behalf of the least advantaged. The guidelines connect practical administrative decision issues with ethical theory and principles to prevent the further disadvantaging of the least advantaged. It is contended that the management of budget cuts should reflect values of greater social and economic equality and should also entail active political involvement to further distributive justice.
Journal
(1983)
vol7
no3
pages59-72
Categories
-
Nonprofit Management
-
Financial Planning and Management
