Ethical Behavior in Public Management

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Ethical behavior in leaders in Public Administration has a significant impact on their employees and the environment of their work place. Ethics is not looked at in the same light in other parts of the world. What some cultures view as normal behavior, our culture may view as unethical or corruption. (Branscome, 2008, p. 1). Some behaviors in other cultures have been instilled as a normal way of doing business. In our culture, employees feel their leaders should be beyond reproach in order for them to lead effectively. According to research, “The number one attribute we demand from our leaders and admire when we see it is honesty. A character trait- not knowledge, skills, or abilities – was the first choice every time.” (Perego, 2010, p. 1).

As stated in the article by Branscome (2008), Dr. Knapp’s model listed three dimensions of trust that lead to ethical leadership. “Those dimensions are credibility, respect, and fairness.” (Branscome, 2008, p. 2). In order for a leader to be ethical and to be considered trustworthy they must walk the walk, talk the talk. “It may be a c...

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