What characterizes an ethical dilemma?

An ethical dilemma is characterized by a situation in which an individual's beliefs and values conflict, making it difficult to arrive at a clear solution to a moral problem. In such scenarios, a person may face competing principles or obligations that challenge their ethical stance, leading to uncertainty about the best course of action. The absence of a definitive answer is what makes it a dilemma—there's no straightforward right or wrong, and personal beliefs may not suffice in guiding the decision.

In contrast, other situations mentioned do not embody the essence of an ethical dilemma. Having a clear resolution to a moral problem indicates that the ethical issue is well-defined and solvable, which is not the case in dilemmas. A strong societal consensus on right and wrong implies that there is agreement within a community about ethical standards, removing the ambiguity that characterizes dilemmas. Similarly, while there can be legal implications related to moral issues, legalities do not inherently create the complex emotional and ethical conflicts that define a dilemma.