Which of the following is a sign of rationalizing in arriving at a decision?

• A. You have all the facts in the case? Is the information reliable, or has someone who the decision affects slanted it?
• B. Have you identified everyone who will be affected?
• C. Have you considered options that may not hurt as many people?
• D. Are you rationalizing in arriving at the decision? Will the decision benefit you to the disadvantage of others?

Answer: (D)

Rationalizing in decision making shows up as a self-serving motive dressed up as logic. The best indicator here is asking whether the choice will benefit you at the expense of others. That reveals the driver behind the decision is personal gain rather than objective evaluation, which is a hallmark of rationalizing.

The other options point to careful, ethical thinking: checking the reliability and completeness of the information, recognizing everyone who will be affected, and weighing options that minimize harm. These are signs of thorough analysis and consideration of consequences, not of self-serving rationalization.