Item 22 in Truth By Reason Master Ethical Code

Apply Principles with Practical Wisdom

When duties conflict, identify everyone affected, establish the facts, examine rights, power, consent and alternatives, then choose the least harmful effective option.

Position
22
Form
Mixed formulation
Obligation
Context-dependent
Wording status
Translation
Intended audience
Everyone
Last reviewed
28 June 2026

Names and terminology

Canonical name: Apply Principles with Practical Wisdom

Source wording

<p>When duties conflict, identify everyone affected, establish the facts, examine rights, power, consent and alternatives, then choose the least harmful effective option.</p>

Translation

Literal meaning

When duties conflict, identify everyone affected, establish the facts, examine rights, power, consent and alternatives, then choose the least harmful effective option.

Broader interpretation

Explain decisions openly where possible, review their consequences, correct errors and repair unforeseen harm.

Practical meaning

When duties conflict, identify everyone affected, establish the facts, examine rights, power, consent and alternatives, then choose the least harmful effective option.

Ethical purpose

Explain decisions openly where possible, review their consequences, correct errors and repair unforeseen harm.

Modern application

Apply this principle to personal conduct, organisations and public policy, with particular attention to people and beings who carry the greatest risks while holding the least power.

Criticism and difficult cases

This principle may conflict with other duties. It should therefore be applied with evidence, proportionality, role reversal, attention to power and review of foreseeable consequences.

Truth By Reason analysis

Explain decisions openly where possible, review their consequences, correct errors and repair unforeseen harm.

Sources