Send to a Friend

weeveeship's avatar

Would it be morally wrong to run against an acquaintance in an election?

Asked by weeveeship (4665points) February 9th, 2011

Hypothetical:
Andy and Bob are classmates. They have known each other for about a couple months and have hung out a few times. Otherwise, they aren’t particularly close friends.

Today is the day of the elections for XYZ Club. Andy and Bob have not discussed their interest in running for a position with each other prior to the election. At election time, members are allowed to nominate someone for a position. Assume that one can nominate one’s self. Also, assume that Andy and Bob are both equally qualified for the position.

Unforeseen by Andy, Bob runs for Secretary. Andy also wants to run for Secretary. There are no other challengers for the position. Andy declares his candidacy, but makes no comments regarding his belief or opinion of Bob’s leadership abilities.

Bob is furious and calls Andy a selfish backstabber. Assume the results are pending.

Questions
According to the facts above is Andy (1) selfish or (2) a backstabber?

Was it morally wrong for Andy to run against his acquaintance Bob?

Hypothetical with twists
Twist 1. Let’s assume that Andy could have run for Vice President instead, but chose not to, because he sincerely believed that he better serve the club as a Secretary. One cannot run for more than one position.

Is Andy a selfish backstabber?
Is it morally wrong for Andy to run against Bob?

2. Ignoring Twist 1 and returning to the main hypo, let’s say that Bob was nominated by three other acquaintances who Andy is not familiar with. Andy nominates himself. We do not consider the wisdom of Andy’s actions, only their morality.

Is Andy a selfish backstabber?
Is it wrong for Andy to run against Bob?

Results time!
1. Andy won.

Is Andy a selfish backstabber?
Is it wrong for Andy to run against Bob?

2. Bob won.

Is Andy a selfish backstabber?
Is it wrong for Andy to run against Bob?

I am very interested in seeing your responses to the hypos above. In particular, I am interested in how you all view this situation. Thanks in advance.

Using Fluther

or

Using Email

Separate multiple emails with commas.
We’ll only use these emails for this message.