Ethics and safety

Chapter 23

What is ethical?

Ethics - code of moral principles that guide people

Morality - values adopted by society in general

Values - core qualities that people consider important and essential for success

Right, wrong or depends

I didn’t do anything illegal!

Was it ethical?

Are there guidelines to help make decisions based on our values?

Guidelines

Morning after test

Front page test

Mirror test

Role reversal test

Common sense test

Guidelines

Is it legal?

Is it fair to all?

How will I feel about myself?

Behavior in institutions

Behavior influenced by:

Ego strength - self-directed

Machiavellianism - attempt to deceive or mislead others

Locus of control - who or what controls behavior

Behavior in institutions

Social factors also influence behavior

Gender, role differences, religion, age, work experience, culture

Influence of significant others

Professionals & ethics

Help others by setting ethical examples

Help others make the right decision

Help others follow through on their decisions

Approaches to making choices

Best ratio approach

Good to bad decision ratio

Most good for the most people

Black & white approach

Fair and impartial choices

Full potential

Help others achieve their full potential

Company’s role in ethics

Internal environment that promotes, expects, & rewards ethical behavior

Policies & practices

Ethics philosophy

Setting an example of ethical behavior

Support ethical decisions when not profitable

Ethical dilemmas

Apply the guidelines

Select the approach

Proceed with the decision, consistently