Values_and_Ehtics_Reflection_and_Evolution

Values and Ethics Evaluation and Reflection Kati Kraft-Smith MGT 521 Jim Holst University of Phoenix Values and Ethics Evaluation and Reflection Introduction: The American feminist Gloria Steinem once said, “The act of acting morally is behaving as if everything we do matters.” (www.wisdomquotes.com). Kati Kraft’s philosophy of ethics aligns itself with that of Gloria Steinem, as evaluated by the Williams Institute Ethics Awareness Assessment. A closer look at the assessment and Kati’s results will show that her ethical philosophy is mostly character based. A further evaluation of Kati’s ethical philosophy also coincides with that of Kudler Fine Foods, both valuing high quality and integrity. The Test: The Williams Institute Ethics Awareness Inventory Self-Assessment test “refers to a series of broad characterizations representing four prominent categories of ethical philosophy.” (https://ecampus.phoenix.edu/secure/aapd/Vendors/TWI/EAI/). The four ethical philosophies are C-character, O-obligation, R-results, and E-Equality (C.O.R.E). The evaluation is a series of 24 questions giving a value to the C.O.R.E, defining which philosophy one values most, least, or a combination of any of the four ethical perspectives. One having the ethical philosophy of character (C ), bases ethical perspective on evidences of virtue by looking at one’s character. Traits that are highly valued are integrity, honor, wisdom, and justice. Character based ethical philosophy relies on the individual to make sound moral judgments that may, or may not comply with the standards set in place. The obligation (O) philosophy focuses on what a person ought to do morally. Ethical conduct relies on conscience to determine actions. The individual with this philosophy will look more at the intent behind an action rather than the result of an action. Obligation minded individuals look at the circumstance of a situation, if the action was respectful of human dignity, and committed to promoting individual freedom and autonomy. The belief that everyone has the right to a choice and deserves respect, are strong qualities that the obligation ethical perspective values. The results (R) perspective looks at the results of consequences of one’s actions. The majority rules or the betterment of society if highly valued. Results philosophy looks at the bottom-line as an ethical standard for making decisions, the standard being the overall good for society. The individuals with the result ethical perspective also believe that everyone has the right to live the “good-life” which is measured by how satisfied the majority is, and the unified standard created by society. There must be measurable results for this ethical philosophy, which is determined by the majority. The view that there are no absolutes in decision making due to the ever-changing philosophies in education, knowledge, beliefs and values reflects the perspective of the equality (E) ethical philosophy. Equality values experience as a guide for ethical conduct. Education is not valued as much as experience. Equality ethical perspective has a concern for the instability of human judgment and individuals that can truly qualify as an expert in discerning right from wrong. These individuals prefer to take into account all viewpoints of a circumstance before making an ethical decision and judging moral standards. Kati’s Test Results: Kati Kraft took the Williams Institute Ethics Awareness Inventory Self-Assessment and her results were as following, her highest score fell under the character (C) ethical philosophy, her lowest value falling within the results (R) philosophy. Based on these test results Kati values what is good to be rather than what is good to do. She looks beyond actions and examines the character of the individual. Kati believes that ethics relies on the individual to make sound moral judgments, which is expressed through exemplary demonstrations of making difficult decisions. Traits that are valued most by Kati are integrity, wisdom, honesty, honor, justice, and benevolence. She believes compliance with the rules may not always follow ethical guidelines, but demonstrating the above mentioned qualities is more valuable than following the unified standard of rules. Also, based on her results, Kati is not as concerned for having measureable results for ones moral actions. Her ethical choices may not always reflect the overall good for society and may not be the popular vote. Other individuals may not understand this perspective of ethics which can lead to a source of frustration for Kati. She may also feel that the word integrity is often used by many but very rarely demonstrated, as this ethical perspective believes that character takes time develop. A problem organizationally for the character ethical philosophy, is that there may be a feeling that the ethical systems in place may have been an afterthought, and give the persona of being artificial. Kati needs to be aware of these perspectives and take them into account when making decisions, as not everyone has this same philosophy. Kati and Kudler Fine Foods: Kudler Fine Foods values many things especially high quality product and exceptional customer service. These values coincide with Kati’s ethical perspective of character. Kudler prides itself in making sure it provides it’s best to their customers. Kudler provides its customers with an old English style bakery, which uses only the finest ingredients for their products. Their meats department is certified organic and they try to achieve the same standard for their produce section, while still offering the option of non-organic produce to the customer for price convince. Kudler also highly values top quality customer service. The organization takes that extra step offering their customers the option to custom order products the stores do not have available. The organization provides the customers with top quality professionals and experts to help them in the gourmet cooking experience. The high standards of quality and customer service that Kudler provides enhance the reputation and integrity of the organization. This is also what Kati values, a high standard of integrity. Kati would be on board to adhering to these high quality standards set by Kathy the current owner of the Kudler Fine Foods. Kati would expect the organization to remain focused on these qualities and continue to offer their customers nothing but the best service and product available. Conclusion: Ones ethics and values reflect how they would handle moral decisions with the workplace and in everyday life. An understanding and awareness of one’s ethical beliefs is a beneficial tool to working with others and aiding in a successful organization. A further analysis of Kati’s evaluation shows she is more ethically focused on character, which values greatly integrity of the individual/organization. This ethical philosophy greatly merges with that of Kudler Fine Foods standards and practices, as they value a high quality standard of product and customer service. References: Ethics Awareness Inventory self-assessment. Retrieved January 28, 2010 from https://ecampus.phoenix.edu/secure/aapd/Vendors/TWI/EAI/ Hodge, C. (2009). Professional Values. Retrieved January 28, 2010 from http://changingminds.org/explanations/values/values_morals_ethics.htm Kulder Fine Foods Strategic Plan 2003. Retrieved January 15, 2010 from https://ecampus.phoenix.edu/secure/aapd/cist/vop/business/kudler/Internet/Wine.ht Straker, D. (2009). Values, Morals, and Ethics. Retrieved January 28,2010 from http://changingminds.org/explanations/values/values_morals_ethics.htm Steinem, G. Retrieved January 28, 2010 from www.wisdomquotes.com