The dynamics of moral behavior by the example of the possibility of an unpunished crime
| Title of the project | The dynamics of moral behavior by the example of the possibility of an unpunished crime |
| Primary and secondary scientific disciplines | Management, psychology |
| Description of the project | Seemingly harmless dishonest acts such as small thefts little deceptions result in real losses to organizations and societies. In order to prevent them, it is necessary to understand psychological mechanisms that influence the tendency towards dishonesty. Recent research on this topic was limited in a significant way: most of experiments examined only isolated instances of opportunities to cheat but people are exposed to this temptation regularly, rather than once. A predictable pattern of moral decisions does not always arise: people are sometimes consistent in their moral choices, but sometimes they evince moral balancing. As a result, one morally appropriate behavior may increase the tendency to behave dishonestly in another situation. However, some previous studies suggest it is possible to manipulate the ethical mindset and reduce the moral balancing effect. This could possibly prevent the negative consequences of honesty.
Characteristics and main objectives of the research project: · Researching psychological mechanisms that influence the tendency towards dishonesty · Tracing the influence of past behavior on future moral decisions · Experimental, quantitative approach · Goal: effective management which prevents unethical and counterproductive behavior The project is conducted in cooperation with Coventry University, England Principal supervisor: prof. dr hab. Aldona Glińska-Neweś |