Contextualizing Ethical Climate: Examining Contextual Moderators of the Connection Between Ethical Climate Perceptions and Ethical Behavior

Jay Bates (), Jeremy M. Beus () and Shaun Parkinson ()
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Jay Bates: Washington State University
Jeremy M. Beus: Washington State University
Shaun Parkinson: Washington State University

Journal of Business Ethics, 2025, vol. 196, issue 1, No 7, 129-148

Abstract: Abstract Workplace ethics perceptions drive ethical behaviors, but our understanding of how context shapes the nature of this relationship is limited. Consequently, this article uses contingency theory to explore how perceptions of ethical priorities in the workplace—ethical work climate (EWC)—are differentially associated with ethical behavior based on the broader context. Specifically, we meta-analytically test theoretically relevant cultural values (i.e., collectivism, power distance) and work context factors (i.e., consequence of errors, job autonomy) as moderators of the connection between EWC perceptions and ethical behavior. Our findings reveal that while higher power-distance societal contexts strengthen the connection between EWC perceptions and ethical behavior, work contexts with higher autonomy weaken the connection. We found mixed support for collectivism as a contextual moderator, with results supporting theoretical expectations with one cultural conceptualization but not another. Contrary to expectations, the consequences of errors in work contexts did not moderate the association between EWC perceptions and ethical behavior. Taken together, this meta-analytic investigation highlights the meaningful role of the broader organizational context as a potential boundary condition for the influence of EWC perceptions on ethical behavior.

Keywords: Ethical climate; Culture; Meta-analysis (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s10551-024-05698-9

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