ENHANCING PERSONAL ETHICS-1:Influence of Culture, Common ethical problems

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Human Relations MGMT611

Lesson 40

ENHANCING PERSONAL ETHICS-1

Ethics

To work according to the principles is considered a commendable attribute. It is usually said "he is a man of

principles". When this is said it attaches some credibility to the person.

Ethics prescribe and proscribe certain behaviour under specified conditions designed to preserve and

promote the accountability and integrity of workers. Professional ethics can be understood as the rules of

conduct that translate the profession's characteristic ideals, or ethos, into everyday practice. (Cartel &

Denhardt, 1989)

Ethics may also be defined as a set of standards that help to determine the difference between right or wrong. An ethical

decision requires deciding on what action or behaviour is right or wrong. The character of the employees

and the employers is the reflection of their values. The character traits that help people make ethical

decisions develop over time. It is expected that consistency and persistency lies in their behaviour.

Influence of Culture

Work ethics are considered as the control on the behaviour of the workers under certain conditions. The

ethical standards of the workers are molded by their social and historical traditions. The cultural

environment determines ethical conduct and standards.

The ultimate standard of conduct for the workers is the realization of organizational goals along with

personal and social interests.

Modern work ethics

In the organizations, the rules and regulations are formulated to promote accountability and integrity.

Personal and organizational goals should be achieved following the principles and code of conduct of set by

the organizations. People shall be guided in their work and their professional conduct by a balanced

framework of values: democratic, professional, ethical and people-oriented

Democratic values

Employees shall give honest and impartial advice and make all information relevant to a decision available

to the administration. Employees shall loyally implement administrative decisions.

Professional values

Serving with competence, excellence, efficiency, objectivity and impartiality comes under professional

values. Employees shall Endeavour to ensure the proper, effective and efficient use of organizational

resources.

Ethical values

Acting at all times in such a way as to uphold the social and organizational trust. Workers should perform

their duties and arrange their private affairs so that organizational confidence and trust is maintained. If a

conflict arises between the private interests and the organizational work, the conflict should normally be

resolved in favour of the organization.

People values

It should always be remembered that the thrust of human relations lies in the courtesy and respect.

Demonstrating respect, fairness and courtesy in dealings with fellow workers is as important as other values.

Respect for human dignity and the value of every person should always inspire personal conduct and

responsibility.

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Human Relations MGMT611

Managers should conduct ethical behaviour

An organizational environment where high standards of conduct are encouraged by providing appropriate

incentives for ethical behaviour, such as adequate working conditions and effective performance

assessment, has a direct impact on the daily practice of ethical standards.

Managers have an important role in this regard by providing consistent performance and conduct. The

managers must show the traits of honesty, integrity, fairness, responsibility, respect for others, hard work,

positive attitude through their behaviour.

Performance of the workers is assessed through the workers' ethical conduct. If they follow the principles

and code of conduct of the organizations, they are given rewards to promote and encourage their

behaviour. Some of the organizations pronounce their employees as `employee of the month' or `employee

of the year'.

Why Be Concerned About Business Ethics?

People are motivated by both self-interest and moral commitments, so you have to watch out both

carefully. The organizations that follow ethical values always have long term goals, instead of short term

goals.

A good ethics reputation can enhance business.

Many unethical acts are illegal leading to financial loss and punishment. High ethics can increase quality of

work life. The organizations working for long term goals develop goodwill and trust with the passage of

time and people like to work with such organizations.

Common ethical problems

Being ethical isn't easy for many reasons including the complexity of ethical decisions and working in an

unethical environment. Ethical violations by rank-and-file workers are widespread, particularly with respect

to lying. Those who are in authority usually do not follow ethical principles or values. Sometimes it becomes

difficult to work according to your principles and code of conduct. Some workers feel that they are not

being treated fairly. Criterion for promotion should be the performance rather than personal likes or

dislikes. Gender-based harassment is also observed at some work places which is illegal and unethical.

Many a times, conflict of interest arises. Under such circumstances you should make decisions in the

interest of the organization.

References:

Denhardt, G. K. & Carton, L.B. (1989). The Management of Ideals: A Political perspective on Ethics.

Public administration review, Vol. 49, No 2.

Dubrin, A.J. (2005). Human Relations: Career and Personal Success. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey,

07458.

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