When it comes to morality, everyone has their own set of beliefs and values that guide them in making decisions.
There are times when individuals may have to make difficult choices between following orders and upholding their personal code of conduct. This is especially true for subordinates who are often tasked with carrying out instructions from superiors without question. In such situations, how does the subordinate's moral agency develop when they follow commands that conflict with their internal ethical principles?
The answer lies in understanding the psychological and social factors that shape an individual's sense of right and wrong. Firstly, people tend to view themselves as having free will and autonomy over their actions, meaning that they can choose to act according to their beliefs or not.
This is not always the case, particularly when faced with external pressures like power dynamics or legal obligations.
Someone who witnesses a crime but is told not to report it might feel conflicted about obeying their superior or breaking the law. Secondly, moral development occurs through personal experience and learning from others, including parents, teachers, and cultural norms. As a result, one's upbringing, culture, and environment play significant roles in shaping their moral compass.
Cognitive dissonance theory suggests that individuals seek consistency between their thoughts and actions, leading to inner turmoil when they do something against their conscience.
Obedience to authority can be seen as a form of moral compromise wherein individuals must balance their values and their duties. It's also worth noting that some people may find comfort in knowing that their actions align with larger goals or objectives.
An employee who follows orders from their boss even if it means lying to a customer may believe that the company's success justifies the deception.
While there is no easy solution for resolving conflicts between moral principles and instructions, subordinates should strive to uphold their integrity and speak out against unethical behavior.
How does the subordinate's moral agency evolve when obeying commands that conflict with internal ethical principles?
Moral agency refers to an individual's capacity for making independent decisions based on their personal values and beliefs. When a subordinate is faced with conflicting orders, they may experience cognitive dissonance, which can result in feelings of guilt, shame, or anxiety. To address this, individuals often engage in self-regulation strategies such as rationalization or justification, or they may reframe the situation by placing blame elsewhere.