Overview
When we think about values, we often think about positive values like the ones Aristotle and Plato promoted: courage, honesty, and wisdom. However, not all personal values are constructive. In his theory of basic values (Chapter 4.13), Shalom Schwartz identified 10 universal values. He asks: “When people talk about values, they usually mean ‘moral’ values. Which values are moral and which are not? What makes a value ‘moral’?” (Schwartz). Building off of Schwartz’s framework, Illies and Reiter-Palmon (Chapter 4.14) “explored the role personal values play in destructive leader decision making and problem solving.”
The philosophical frameworks of deontology, utilitarianism, social contract theory, and virtue ethics can all be helpful to consider when trying to make an ethical decision. For example, should we take a utilitarian approach and consider what is best for the most? Should we take a deontological approach and value duty and individual dignity over all else? We use both our values and moral philosophies when we try to choose the right thing to do.
As with values, the philosophical frameworks have their benefits and limitations. In this discussion, we will be examining what causes leaders to make bad decisions in order to illuminate how applying moral values and ethical frameworks could have made for a more ethical decision.
Reflect upon a major ethical scandal you have encountered in your own life/career. What values impacted the decision-making process in the case? How could applying one or more of the philosophical frameworks discussed in the resources have changed the outcome? Did the leader’s actions highlight any of the limitations of the philosophical frameworks?
Alternatively, instead of discussing a personal example, you can review the resources in Chapters 4.21 and 4.22. Select one of these case studies and discuss what values impacted the decision-making process in the case. How could applying one or more of the philosophical frameworks discussed in the resources have changed the outcome? Do the leader’s actions highlight any of the limitations of the philosophical frameworks?
In your responses to classmates, consider the following questions: How might you have handled or prevented the scandal? What advice would you have given the key players?