If you ask a group of people to list the traits and characteristics they believe a good leader must possess, being a person of moral and ethical character always seems to be near the top. But what does ethical and moral character really mean? The prevalence of ethical and moral scandals in both government and the private sector highlights that this “standard” is more flexible and permeable than most people would prefer. This is partly why a growing number of organizations are implementing a code of conduct for their members that focuses on moral and ethical standards, and are providing a better definition of what these values and beliefs really mean. Even so, we still continue to see an increase in the number, complexity, and extent of ethical and moral lapses by leaders across government, corporations and not-for-profit entities alike. And while greed is part of the reason these things occur, it is not the only thing.

             Moral and ethical character are core values that people, cultures, and society hold and are, in part, defined by the culture, or society, that you belong to. But, contrary to the social environment of a hundred years ago—when cultures and organizations were relatively homogenous in their make-up—globalization, immigration, and diversity have created a more heterogenous society than ever before. This cultural shift has brought with it different standards and expectations regarding moral and ethical behaviour and without clear guidance as to what is acceptable within the organization, people rely on their own definition, standards, and interpretations of ethics and morals which may be outdated or contrary to what is needed in the organization.