Certified Building Official Management Practice Exam

When making ethical decisions, what is the term for self-reflective questioning regarding feelings about the decision?

1. The Ethics Test

2. Internal Review

3. The Butterfly test

4. The Decision-Making Process

The correct answer is: The Butterfly test

The term referred to is commonly known as "The Butterfly Test." This concept involves a metaphorical approach to ethical decision-making that encourages individuals to reflect on their emotional responses and instincts regarding a decision. The essence of this test is to assess how one truly feels about the potential outcomes of a decision, much like how one would feel a butterfly's delicate nature when contemplating a sensitive ethical choice. This form of self-reflection is crucial as it helps individuals consider the emotional impact and moral implications of their decisions, leading to a deeper understanding of whether the choice aligns with their ethical beliefs and values. In this context, it serves as a tool for individuals to evaluate their intentions and the potential consequences of their actions. While the other concepts mentioned—such as The Ethics Test, Internal Review, and the Decision-Making Process—are valuable components of ethical decision-making frameworks, they do not specifically focus on the self-reflective aspect regarding one’s feelings about a decision in the same metaphorical or emotional manner as the Butterfly Test. Each of those alternatives addresses different elements of decision-making, such as systematic evaluation or procedural review, rather than the introspective emotional examination that the Butterfly Test emphasizes.