Ethics

Question 1

Is power the cause of ethical behavior?

Answer 1

Yes? Some evidence:
Powerful more likely to cheat on partners, speed
Think rules apply to other people

Power reduces effects of Behavioral Inhibition System

May reduce inhibitions that limit unethical behavior
No? Some more evidence:
Powerful more likely to help as bystanders

Question 2

Narcissism and power?

Answer 2

Narcissism + power = a high-risk combo
Narcissists gamble more, drive more aggressively, choose riskier investment strategies
White-collar criminals – higher in narcissism than comparable non-criminal execs

Why?
Overconfidence
Sense of personal entitlement, deservingness
Myopic focus on rewards
Diminished concern about effects on others

Question 3

Psychological Mechanisms that Enable Unethical Behavior

Answer 3

Moral justification: Cognitive strategies and rationalizations used to justify unethical behavior
Social norms & rules: Common, normative behavior may not be recognized as unethical – or feel obliged to go along
Outcome focus: Leads to view that ends (outcomes) justify the means (process)
Moral inaction: Failure to act even when we recognize unethical behavior

Question 4

What is the role of moral justification?

Answer 4

Anonymity of victim
Less concerned and aware of ethical implications when no clear identifiable victim
Traders manipulating power in CA

Anonymity of actor
Costumes with masks increase likelihood of stealing candy
More cheating in dimly lit rooms
Road rage