The Organizational Approach to Ethics

Key Takeaways

  • Ethics is more than a matter of individual behavior; it's also about organizational behavior. Employees' actions aren't based solely on personal values; they're also influenced by other members of the organization.
  • Organizations have unique cultures – ways of doing things that evolve through shared values and beliefs.
  • An organization's culture is strongly influenced by top managers, who are responsible for letting members of the organization know what's considered acceptable behavior and what happens if it's violated.
  • Subordinates look to their supervisors as role models of ethical behavior. If managers act ethically, subordinates will probably do the same.
  • Those in positions of leadership should hold subordinates accountable for their conduct and take appropriate action.
  • Many organizations have a formal code of conduct that describes the principles and guidelines that all members must follow in the course of job-related activities.