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Data-Driven Ethics Process Flow

Overview

This interactive diagram visualizes the systematic six-step process for data-driven ethical analysis. The framework guides students from initial harm identification through targeted intervention, emphasizing that ethical analysis is an iterative process where new insights inform earlier steps.

Interactive Diagram

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Description

The Data-Driven Ethics Process Flow represents the core analytical methodology used throughout this course. Unlike traditional ethics approaches that focus on abstract principles, this process emphasizes measurable outcomes and evidence-based intervention strategies.

The process is divided into three phases:

  • Research Phase (Blue): Steps 1-3 focus on understanding the problem through identification, quantification, and causal analysis
  • Synthesis Phase (Green): Steps 4-5 involve mapping system dynamics and evaluating potential interventions
  • Action Phase (Gold): Step 6 targets high-leverage intervention points for maximum impact

Workflow Steps

  1. IDENTIFY - Catalog types of harm using multiple sources: health impacts, environmental damage, social costs, and economic effects

  2. QUANTIFY - Apply measurement frameworks like DALYs (Disability-Adjusted Life Years), social cost accounting, and normalized metrics to determine harm magnitude

  3. ANALYZE - Trace causal mechanisms to distinguish root causes from symptoms, understanding how harm propagates through systems

  4. MAP - Visualize connections, feedback loops, and stakeholder relationships using systems thinking tools like causal loop diagrams

  5. EVALUATE - Review evidence on past interventions across industries and contexts to identify success patterns and avoid repeated failures

  6. TARGET - Identify high-leverage intervention points where small changes can yield large impacts, then design actionable strategies

Key Concepts

  • Iterative Analysis: The feedback loop from TARGET back to IDENTIFY reflects that ethical analysis is never truly complete—new insights require revisiting earlier steps
  • Evidence + Values = Action: The central principle emphasizes that effective ethical action requires both rigorous data and clear value commitments
  • Phase-Based Approach: Color coding helps students understand the progression from research through synthesis to action
  • Systems Perspective: The process incorporates systems thinking throughout, recognizing that harm exists within complex interconnected systems

Usage Notes

This diagram illustrates the workflow described above. Each node represents a step in the analytical process, with arrows showing the flow of analysis.

Node Types:

  • Circle: Central principle (Evidence + Values = Action)
  • Rectangles: Process steps with step number and guiding question
  • Dashed arrow: Feedback loop for iteration

Color Coding:

  • Blue: Research/analysis steps (1-3)
  • Green: Synthesis steps (4-5)
  • Gold: Action step (6)