Understanding Ethical Attitudes

Abstract

The prevalence of ethics-related crises in organisations has drawn significant public attention. In today's morally confusing and polarised world, characterised by rapid technological advancements and a growing emphasis on sustainability, the role of business ethics has become crucial and relevant. It is important to understand ethical behaviour in the business context, as it is not only integral to organisational success but also a fundamental component of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. Despite the traditional focus on profit maximisation, businesses are increasingly expected to align with sustainable development principles and adapt to the challenges in the business world. Understanding the concepts of personal ethics, ethical attitudes, and ethical climate is important for managers to react to and handle major ethical issues in today's fiercely competitive world. This chapter aims to discuss the issues and solutions of the three concepts and also analyse the relationship between personal ethics and ethical attitudes under the moderating influence of ethical climate in organisations. Through an examination of these factors, organisations can foster a culture of ethical awareness and responsiveness, thereby mitigating risks and promoting sustainable business practices.