Personal reflection and career introspection are crucial when faced with moral dilemmas at work. Reasoning ethical and moral questions can be profoundly complex, writes Paul Falcone. He shares a consistent framework to help leaders feel more confident and objectively think through the implications affecting their decisions.
“Psychologists have a concept called ‘pluralistic ignorance’ that may describe a team’s silence about out-of-control jokes and group behaviors,” said G. Richard Shell, JD.
Source: SHRM, February 6, 2023. Link.
Pluralistic ignorance traps groups into silence when everyone at the table feels offended by a speaker’s sexist or racist remarks, but they all think they are the only one who feels this way. If even one person has the courage to speak up, the spell can be broken and the real group consensus on an ethical lapse can emerge.”
INSIGHTS: While aimed at HR situations, Falcone’s framework can also be applied to the daily interactions between team members, as well as important considerations for outside representatives during their calls on customers.