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Cheating and NASCAR: Who's at the wheel?

Author

Listed:
  • Baucus, Melissa
  • Norton Jr., William I.
  • Davis-Sramek, Beth
  • Meek, William

Abstract

This article embarks on a road trip to NASCAR, the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, to take a close look at why cheating occurs within that organization. Two arguments drive the article, namely that NASCAR (1) may not be able to stop cheating particularly within the current context, and (2) might not want or be motivated to stop cheating. Obstacles complicating NASCAR's efforts to stop cheating include the long-standing culture of unethical behavior within stock car racing, and the inconsistent imposition of punishments by NASCAR which drivers and race teams perceive as favoritism and unfair treatment. Yellow flags that raise caution include pressure from unwavering fans, and the friction between innovation and maintaining parity among teams. Proposed solutions include changing the culture within the NASCAR community, as well as developing ethical role models, both of which require major action by NASCAR's top managers to signal the importance of ethical behavior. Other key stakeholders such as sponsors and fans must create incentives and rewards for ethical behavior, and consider reducing or ending support for drivers and teams that engage in unethical conduct. Our analysis and recommendations have broad applications because NASCAR is an archetype of a large organization attempting to reduce cheating and unethical behavior.

Suggested Citation

  • Baucus, Melissa & Norton Jr., William I. & Davis-Sramek, Beth & Meek, William, 2008. "Cheating and NASCAR: Who's at the wheel?," Business Horizons, Elsevier, vol. 51(5), pages 379-389.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:bushor:v:51:y:2008:i:5:p:379-389
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    2. Elster, Jon, 1989. "Social Norms and Economic Theory," Journal of Economic Perspectives, American Economic Association, vol. 3(4), pages 99-117, Fall.
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