After reading “Ethical Role of the Manager” by Sandra Waddock, I have gained insight into just how much weight falls on the shoulders of ethical leaders. Leaders must have stable morals when it comes to personal aspects (moral person) and a moral manager, for the company’s best interest. Leaders must weigh their options and the consequences to make the best situation. On a way smaller scale, I see myself weighing these consequences in my own decision making throughout my daily life. For example, am I going to go to this social event knowing I have assignments due the same night?

This text reminds me of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. In the story, Harry Potter is troubled with having to make difficult decisions about justice and revenge. He struggles with what he believes is morally right. This ties directly to when he figures out the truth about Sirius Black. With this newfound truth, Harry Potter chooses to act ethically by sparing Sirius’s life, even after his betrayal. This connects with the text by Sandra Waddock because it conveys how leaders must put their emotions to the side when making impactful decisions. Every decision has consequences and it’s the leader’s job to weigh them. Just like a manager must weigh many factors in decision making, Harry demonstrates that ethical leadership sometimes means choosing what is right over what is easiest. 

This text reminds me of many company’s, one example being Patagonia. Patagonia is known for being committed to ethical business practices and social responsibility. Managers in this company consistently make choices that focus on values. This takes the form of sustainability practices, donations to other organizations, and their interactions with customers. These actions show how ethical leadership can guide a company’s purpose and build trust with stakeholders.

Waddock, Sandra. “Ethical Role of the Manager.” Encyclopedia of Business Ethics and Society. Ed. . Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE,2007. 786-91. SAGE Reference Online. Web. 30 Jan. 2012.