Rationalizations

• It’s ethical as long as it doesn’t hurt anyone
• I’ve got it coming; they owe me
• It’s for a good cause
• If it’s necessary, it’s ethical
• I’m just fighting fire with fire
• Everyone else is doing it
• It’s a dumb rule

Characteristics of Ethical Leaders

• Fair and just – everyone is treated equally
• Respect for others – values contributions of others and cares for all
• Honest and loyal – trust is built by followers when leader is honest and loyal to them
• Humane – everyone is treated with kindness

Ethical Decision Making

• Would you do it in front of your community members, children, spouse, or parents?
• Would you do it if it was going to be on the front page of the newspaper?
• Would you want it done to you?
• Do you need to rationalize it to justify it?
• Are you a “walking defense mechanism”?

Source: Vettern, R. (2016). Being an ethical leader. Presentation for NDSU Extension Service.