(TUC) Thematic Unit: Choices - Making Choices Lesson

In this novel, many characters are now suffering the consequences of choices made in the past. Many characters are also facing life-changing decisions in the present moment. Take a look at these ideas about decision-making below. Do any of the characters follow these theories?

Importance of decision-making

What are the implications of the decisions we make? The direct consequences of our decisions may be obvious, but additionally, it's important to remember:

1. Our decisions affect people. Nearly every decision we make will affect different people in one way or another. It's important to be aware of the influence our decisions will have, and understand what the "human cost" will be.
2. The decisions we make demonstrate our values. Our actions testify more powerfully than our words what we believe in. For example, if a senator speaks in favor of "family values" but has a history of well-documented extramarital affairs, we'll be pretty skeptical of his stated values.
3. Our decisions will set an example for those who follow us. As leaders, we must understand that what we say and do will be looked up to by our followers; that our actions will be copied and modified by those who respect us. For example, whether or not you serve alcohol at a fundraiser sends a powerful message to those who attend, and it may be copied by others as they hold fundraisers. In a very real sense, "follow the leader" is a game many people continue to play all their lives.
4. It demonstrates a desire to lead. By making decisions, we prove to our followers that we are willing to take the reins, direct the action, and get things done. We have shown that we are willing to put our necks on the line and accept the consequences of our actions.
5. Not deciding is a decision in itself.
6. The perceived importance of the decision to the group.
7. The time available to make the decision.
8. The number of other decisions that have to be made.
9. The degree to which the decision requires specialized expertise.
10. The interest and time others have in making the decision.

Styles of decision-making: Who gets to decide?

When there's a decision to be made, who gets to make it? Should a single person, a committee, or the entire group, make decisions? Each of these methods is valid, and each may be appropriate for your group under different circumstances. In general, when determining who will make decisions for your organization, consider the following:

When the decision is important, when there's plenty of time, when other matters are not pressing, when less specialized expertise is involved, and when others express their interest in making the decision -- these are all situations in which decentralized decision-making or a group decision may be appropriate. But when opposite conditions hold -- in an emergency, for example, or when expert information must be processed, or when no one cares very much -- the decision might be better made by a smaller group, or even just one person.

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