Ryan-PT1 SEG03

Summary

This script delves into ethical decision-making, emphasizing organizational and individual influences. It outlines how group norms, organizational pressures like rewards and role conflicts, and cultural elements like formal systems and informal role models can sway ethical behavior. The speaker stresses the importance of personal integrity as a shield against these pressures, suggesting that aligning with an organization's ethical culture is crucial for success and happiness.

Takeaways

• 👥 Group norms and organizational effects can influence ethical behavior, either positively or negatively.
• 🤔 The phrase 'everyone's doing it' can be used as an excuse for unethical behavior within groups.
• 🧐 Rationalization of unethical behavior by a group can provide individuals with reasons to act unethically.
• 📉 Active pressure from peers can lead individuals to compromise their ethical standards.
• 🏆 Organizational rewards and punishments can shape ethical behavior by incentivizing certain actions.
• 👔 Job roles and responsibilities can create conflicts that challenge an individual's ethical decision-making.
• 🔒 Diffusion of responsibility within an organization can lead to collective unethical behavior.
• 🌐 Organizational culture, both formal and informal, plays a significant role in ethical conduct.
• 🚀 Role models and heroes within an organization can set the standard for ethical behavior.
• 📚 Organizational myths and stories can reinforce cultural norms and expectations around ethics.

Q & A

What are the two categories of group and organizational pressures that can impact ethical decision-making?

The two categories are group norms and organizational effects. These pressures can either encourage ethical behavior or discourage it, depending on how the organization and workgroup are set up.

What is an example of a group norm that can influence ethical behavior?

An example of a group norm is the 'everyone's doing it' excuse, which can be used by individuals or the group to justify unethical actions.

How can rationalizing unethical behavior affect an individual's ethical decision-making?

Rationalizing unethical behavior provides individuals with reasons or excuses that make them believe their actions are appropriate, even if they might be hesitant about the ethics of those actions.

What is meant by active pressure from a group to conform?

Active pressure from a group refers to peers trying to convince an individual to participate in actions that might be questionable or unethical, often to avoid making the group look bad.

How do reward and punishment systems within an organization impact ethical behavior?

Reward and punishment systems can encourage or discourage ethical behavior based on how they are structured. If rewards are given for any means to achieve goals, it might lead to unethical actions.

What role do conflicting roles play in ethical decision-making within an organization?

Conflicting roles can cause confusion and stress for individuals, as they might be expected to act in ways that contradict their professional ethics or job descriptions.

Can you explain the concept of 'diffusion of responsibility' in the context of organizational ethics?

Diffusion of responsibility refers to the feeling that one's actions have little impact on the organization's overall ethics, leading individuals to justify slightly unethical actions as not significantly affecting the bigger picture.

How does an organization's culture influence ethical behavior?

An organization's culture, both formal and informal, can pressure individuals towards or against ethical behavior. This includes how the organization hires, trains, and promotes employees, as well as the values and norms that are upheld.

What is the significance of role models and heroes in an organization's culture?

Role models and heroes are individuals within an organization who are looked up to and emulated. They can significantly influence the ethical behavior of others by setting examples of conduct.

How do norms and rituals help maintain an organization's culture?

Norms and rituals are practices and traditions that reinforce the organization's culture. They include things like award ceremonies and celebrations that highlight and uphold the organization's values.

What is the importance of integrity in protecting oneself from external pressures?

Integrity is crucial as it helps individuals stay true to their beliefs and values, even when faced with external pressures from the group or organization. It can insulate them from unethical influences.