Question

Why would an ethical person make an unethical decision?

Answer 1

There could be many reasons for an ethical person to act in an unethical way depending on the situation. He may act unethically if it is doing some good to someone with which he can justify his actions as ethical altogether. Another reason could be of need. A need can make a person behave in way which is different from what he actually is. He ignores the ethical principles to fulfil a need which he gives priority. Another reason can be opportunity. A person seeing an opportunity which could give him a big benefit then he may compromise his ethical norms. Another reason could be pressure from a senior.

A person is forced not to follow his ethical principles over a decision and following it could cost him a lot when he is forced to take an unethical decision. Also if a person feels that with his ethical decisions he is being treated unfairly and being ethical is costing him more then he tends to choose the unethical path. A person will also take unethical decision by getting influenced by others. He knows that something is not right ethically but he sees his leaders or influencers doing it then it makes him do the same.