According to the text, which represents the first step in the process of ethical analysis?

• A. Considering the possible outcomes
• B. Collecting input from others
• C. Reviewing any relevant policies
• D. Determining if there is any relevant law

Answer: (D)

Starting with whether any law applies sets the boundaries for ethical action. Legal requirements establish mandatory duties and what is prohibited, so identifying relevant law first ensures you don’t propose actions that are unlawful and that you respect binding rules. Once you know the legal landscape, you can properly weigh other factors like what outcomes might result, what input from others should be considered, and how policies fit within those legal constraints. If a law dictates a certain course or prohibits it, that binding rule guides the rest of the analysis, making it the natural first step. The other elements remain important but are evaluated after the legal framework is established.