ETHICAybILEMMA How Much Should You Defer to Those in Power? Though it is not alw
ID: 365141 • Letter: E
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ETHICAybILEMMA How Much Should You Defer to Those in Power? Though it is not always easy to admit to ourselves, often weMore often than we acknowledge, powerful individuals adapt our behavior to suit those in power. To some degree, in organizations push our actions into ethical gray areas, it is important for organizational success that we do so. or worse. For example, managers of restaurants and stores After all, people are in positions of authority for a reason, (including McDonald's, Applebee's, Taco Bell, Winn and if no one paid attention to the rules these people put Dixie, and others) were persuaded to strip-search cus- in place, chaos would rule. But is it always ethical for us to tomers or employees when an individual impersonating defer to the powerful? a police officer phoned in and instructed them to do so.Explanation / Answer
13-11) People tend to tailor their behavior to suit those in power more than they admit, this is owing to the fact that maintaining the status quo is considered a safer option rather than rocking the boat and inviting the wrath of the powers that be. I consider someone who is always upto challenging the status quo, without caring much about the repercussions as long as I am convinced that I am standing up for the right thing.
13-12) As outlined in the question above people seek the easier way out of such situations where deference to power has to be exhibited to adhere to the current prevailing equilibrium, in addition to that people also have other factors that they need to keep in mind i.e. their job, family, personal safety etc. all of which ensure that people do not question what is being asked of them from ‘above’
13-13) The factors that influence how we respond to those in power include their ability to affect our position either professionally, personally as well as any associated material harm that might come up on as a consequence of non-adherence.
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