The Potter Box

The Potter Box is a decision-making tool used to analyze ethical dilemmas. It helps individuals systematically explore a situation by considering four key aspects: 1) *facts*—what actually happened; 2) *values*—the principles involved; 3) *loyalties*—who or what has a stake; and 4) *ethical principles*—the moral theories that guide right or wrong choices. By examining these components, the Potter Box encourages careful, structured thinking to arrive at a morally responsible decision. It’s commonly used in journalism, communication, and ethics to clarify complex moral issues.