Organizational Ethics: Moral Development and Ethical Breakdowns

What is the 'State of Being'?

One's current experience, reflecting dynamic conditions evident in thoughts, feelings, or actions.

What influences an individual's state of being?

The individual themselves, their interaction with others, and the organization's culture and structures.

Define 'Ethical Climate'.

Informal shared perceptions of what are appropriate practices and procedures within an organization.

What is 'Ethical Culture'?

Formal and informal systems aimed at influencing the ethical behavior of organizational members.

What are the three levels of Moral Development?

Pre-conventional, conventional, and post-conventional.

How does higher moral development relate to unethical behavior?

Higher levels of moral development correlate with lower levels of unethical behavior.

What is a 'Moral point of view'?

A framework of values used to develop principles and standards of right and wrong.

What does the Consequentialist theory focus on?

The consequences of actions to determine what is ethical.

What is 'Utilitarianism'?

An ethical theory that advocates for actions that benefit the greatest number of people.

What is 'Egoism' in ethical terms?

An ethical theory that prioritizes what is best for oneself.

What is an 'Organizational Code of Ethics'?

A formal written statement outlining the primary values and ethical rules for employees.

What is an 'Ethical Breakdown'?

A failure in ethical judgment or behavior within an organization.

What is 'Motivated blindness'?

Overlooking unethical behavior when it is in our best interest to ignore it.

What does 'Indirect blindness' refer to?

Holding others less accountable for unethical behavior carried out through third parties.

What is the 'Slippery slope' in ethical terms?

Becoming less likely to recognize unethical behavior as it develops gradually from minor infractions.

What does 'Overvaluing outcomes' mean in ethical contexts?

Rewarding results rather than the quality of decision-making, potentially overlooking unethical behavior.

What are common mistakes in ethics assignments?

Not including ethical breakdowns, summarizing instead of analyzing, and including opinions rather than facts.

What should be included in an ethics case analysis?

Facts of the case, key issues, potential ethical breakdowns, and a timeline with an implementation plan.

What is the remedy for 'Ill-conceived goals'?

Brainstorm potential unintended consequences of goals/incentives and consider alternative goals.

How can organizations address 'Motivated blindness'?

Identify and be honest about conflicts of interest.

What is the remedy for 'Indirect blindness'?

Reflect on the implications of delegating work that might invite unethical behavior.

What should organizations do about 'Slippery slope' issues?

Be alert for trivial ethical infractions and address them immediately.

What is the importance of a timeline in ethics assignments?

It helps outline the implementation strategy and track progress in addressing ethical issues.