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Why Good People Cheat (And How to Stop Yourself)

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Why do good, well-intentioned people make catastrophic ethical missteps? In this episode of “Deseret Voices,” host Jane Clayson Johnson sits down with Princeton University ethics scholar Dr. David W. Miller, author of “The 5 Questions for Ethical Decisions: How to Succeed Without Selling Your Soul.”

Together, they explore why standard moral intentions often fail under pressure, the subtle danger of the "movable middle," and why small compromises lead to slippery slopes in corporate and personal lives. As artificial intelligence and autonomous systems increasingly reshape decision-making, Dr. Miller reveals why human ethical judgment, moral courage and "ethical fitness" are more crucial now than ever.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • The "Movable Middle": Why most people aren't saints or villains — and how environmental pressure causes ethical drift.

  • What is Ethical Fitness? Practical habits and visual reminders to train your moral muscle before crisis strikes.

  • The "4 M’s" Decision Filter: A simple, four-step mental check to evaluate any ethical dilemma before you act.

“Deseret Voices” is hosted by award-winning journalists McKay Coppins and Jane Clayson Johnson, who go beyond the headlines to explore the stories, people, and ideas shaping our world today. Through thoughtful, in-depth conversations, the “Deseret Voices” podcast brings clarity and common ground to the complex issues defining our time. 

 

“Deseret Voices” is a Deseret News podcast, produced by Keira Farrimond, Creative Director - Video & Podcasts. 

 

Episodes of “Deseret Voices” drop every Monday wherever you get your podcasts. Follow along and join the conversation on YouTube (@deseretnews), Instagram (@deseretnews), Facebook (@deseretnews) and X (@deseret).

 

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