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Publications
Publications
  • May 31, 2016
  • Article
  • Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences

Memories of Unethical Actions Become Obfuscated over Time

By: Maryam Kouchaki and Francesca Gino
  • Format:Print
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Abstract

Despite our optimistic belief that we would behave honestly when facing the temptation to act unethically, we often cross ethical boundaries. This paper explores one possibility for why people engage in unethical behavior over time by suggesting that memory for their past unethical actions is impaired. We propose that after engaging in unethical behavior, individuals’ memory of their actions becomes more obfuscated over time due to the psychological distress and discomfort such misdeeds cause. In nine studies (N = 2,109), we show that engaging in unethical behavior produces changes in memory, such that memories of unethical actions are gradually less clear and vivid than memories of ethical actions or other types of actions that are either positive or negative in valence. We term this memory obfuscation of one’s unethical acts over time “unethical amnesia.” Due to unethical amnesia, people are more likely to act dishonestly repeatedly over time.

Keywords

Behavior; Ethics; Cognition and Thinking

Citation

Kouchaki, Maryam, and Francesca Gino. "Memories of Unethical Actions Become Obfuscated over Time." Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 113, no. 22 (May 31, 2016).
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About The Author

Francesca Gino

Negotiation, Organizations & Markets
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  • You Need Two Leadership Gears: Know When to Take Charge and When to Get Out of the Way By: Lindy Greer, Francesca Gino and Robert Sutton
  • Authentic First Impressions Relate to Interpersonal, Social, and Entrepreneurial Success By: David M. Markowitz, Maryam Kouchaki, Francesca Gino, Jeffrey T. Hancock and Ryan L. Boyd
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