The conceptualization and measurement of philosophical approaches that influence ethical decision making in the work context: Part 1

  • Estelle Boshoff Department of Industrial Psychology, Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein
  • Martina Kotzé Department of Industrial Psychology, Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein
Keywords: Unethical/ethical behaviour, Work ethics, Ethical decision-making, Ethical issues in the work context, Philosophical approaches that influence ethical decision-making

Abstract

The negative consequences which unethical behaviour holds for organizations necessitates a focus on ethical issues within the work context, as well as factors which may have an influence on ethical be- haviour. Regarding individual factors, researchers indicate that the individual’s ethical decision-making philosophy influences the manner in which ethical problems are managed and behavioural decisions are made. The aim of this article (which forms part of a research project consisting of four parts) is therefore to investigate, by means of a thorough literature review, the ethical issues that organizations mostly face, as well as the philosophical decision-making approaches that may influence ethical decision making in the work context, and to integrate these approaches within a holistic framework of ethical decision making. Six main philosophical approaches together with certain corresponding sub-approaches that may influence ethical decision making in the workplace were identified and integrated within a holistic framework of ethical decision making. 

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Published
2014-07-23
Section
Articles