What does an "ethical dilemma" signify?

An "ethical dilemma" signifies a situation involving conflicting moral principles. This type of scenario occurs when an individual faces a choice between two or more options, each of which is supported by ethical arguments but ultimately may lead to different, potentially opposing outcomes. In such cases, the individual must navigate the complexities of these moral principles, often finding that adhering to one ethical guideline may result in violating another. This tension highlights the nuanced nature of ethical decision-making, where clear solutions are absent.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of an ethical dilemma. A clear-cut moral decision suggests a straightforward choice with no conflict between values, while an agreement between two parties implies a consensus that negates the presence of conflicting values. A universally accepted ethical principle refers to a widely recognized standard that typically wouldn't involve the complexities of choosing between competing moral frameworks. Thus, only the acknowledgment of conflicting moral principles truly defines an ethical dilemma.