What does it mean for a decision to be considered fair?

A decision is considered fair when it eliminates bias and conflict of interest because fairness inherently involves impartiality and objectivity. A fair decision-making process seeks to represent the interests of all parties equitably, ensuring that no individual's or group's preferences unduly influence the outcome over others. This means that the environment in which the decision is made is transparent and inclusive, allowing diverse perspectives to be considered without favoritism.

In contrast, prioritizing personal preferences or being driven by special interests reflects a lack of impartiality, which undermines the fairness of the decision. Similarly, the notion that fairness is determined solely by majority approval can lead to situations where the rights or needs of minority groups are overlooked, thereby not fulfilling the criteria for fairness. Thus, eliminating bias and addressing conflicts of interest is essential for maintaining a fair decision-making process.