The Switchman: Explained
The Switchman is an interactive scenario case study of the classic ethical dilemma the Trolley Problem. It is used in Plebe Leadership, and Youngster Ethics classes. It is the lead case study of the multi-part Stockdale Interactive group of digital case studies, available at:
https://stockdaleinteractive.com/
Should you Pull the Switch, or let a runaway trolley run over a group of people on the track? Professor Doug Rau discusses the learning objectives of this and other case studies, and presents to instructors and students alike the best way to use, teach, and learn from "playing" these simulations in the classroom, and as an individual.
Douglas Rau is the Professor of Leadership Education within the Division of Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) at USNA. He graduated from the Naval Academy in 1974 and received a Bachelor of Science in Ocean Engineering. He holds a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School. He qualified as a Surface Warfare Officer and later transferred to the Engineering Duty Officer community. He was awarded his Ph.D. in Leadership Studies from Dallas Baptist University. His research is in the field of public service motivation. He has served as a member of the VADM Stockdale Center for Ethical Leadership and supports Capstone Character Seminars at the Academy.