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  • September 2015 (Revised January 2023)
  • Background Note
  • HBS Case Collection

Ethical Analysis: Situation versus Character

By: Nitin Nohria, Sandra J. Sucher, Joseph Badaracco and Bridget Gurtler
  • Format:Print
  • | Language:English
  • | Pages:9
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Abstract

When we think of human behavior, especially from a moral perspective, we often rely on explanations based on character. We think that good decisions and responsible behavior require people with integrity and strong character and that immoral behavior originates within people with little integrity and weak character. However, important research in recent decades strongly suggests that situational factors often dominate character in ethical decision making—for leaders and for members of their organizations. This note summarizes the recent research, shows its implications for the basic steps in ethical decision making, and provides a basis for in-depth discussion of the character-versus-situation question.

Keywords

Decision Choices and Conditions; Ethics; Behavior; Personal Characteristics; Power and Influence; Situation or Environment; Values and Beliefs; Social Psychology

Citation

Nohria, Nitin, Sandra J. Sucher, Joseph Badaracco, and Bridget Gurtler. "Ethical Analysis: Situation versus Character." Harvard Business School Background Note 316-078, September 2015. (Revised January 2023.)
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About The Authors

Nitin Nohria

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Sandra J. Sucher

General Management
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Joseph L. Badaracco

General Management
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Related Work

    • September 2015 (Revised January 2023)
    • Faculty Research

    Ethical Analysis: Situation versus Character

    By: Nitin Nohria, Sandra J. Sucher, Joseph Badaracco and Bridget Gurtler
Related Work
  • Ethical Analysis: Situation versus Character By: Nitin Nohria, Sandra J. Sucher, Joseph Badaracco and Bridget Gurtler
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