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The Ethical Climate and Context of Organizations: A Comprehensive Model

Author

Listed:
  • Anke Arnaud

    (College of Business, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114)

  • Marshall Schminke

    (College of Business Administration, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida 32816)

Abstract

Traditional approaches to understanding the ethical context of organizations often focus on ethical work climate, which reflects the collective moral reasoning of organization members. However, such approaches overlook other components of the ethical environment that may influence how ethical judgments translate to ethical behavior. This study extends our understanding of the ethical context of organizations by considering how three distinct aspects of that context—collective moral reasoning (ethical climate), collective moral emotion, and collective ethical efficacy—interact to influence ethical behavior. Results from 117 work units support our hypotheses. Implications and suggestions for future research are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Anke Arnaud & Marshall Schminke, 2012. "The Ethical Climate and Context of Organizations: A Comprehensive Model," Organization Science, INFORMS, vol. 23(6), pages 1767-1780, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:inm:ororsc:v:23:y:2012:i:6:p:1767-1780
    DOI: 10.1287/orsc.1110.0698
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    References listed on IDEAS

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