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Characteristics of Ethical Business Cultures

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify general characteristics attributed to ethical business cultures by executives from a variety of industries. Our research identified five clusters of characteristics: Mission- and Values-Driven, Stakeholder Balance, Leadership Effectiveness, Process Integrity, and Long-term Perspective. We propose that these characteristics be used as a foundation of a comprehensive model that can be engaged to influence operational practices in creating and sustaining an ethical business culture.

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Correspondence to Alexandre Ardichvili.

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Ardichvili, A., Mitchell, J.A. & Jondle, D. Characteristics of Ethical Business Cultures. J Bus Ethics 85, 445–451 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10551-008-9782-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10551-008-9782-4

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