Ethical Decisions at Different Levels of Analysis

The factors that are considered important in an ethical situation depend upon the level of analysis. Within any communication system, there are five levels of analysis: intrapersonal, interpersonal, small group, organizational, and societal.24 In this chapter, we will discuss the first four levels. The fifth level will be discussed in Chapter 3.

LO 2-5

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Title: Levels of analysis in ethical decision-making

Explanation: two side-b-side concentric boxes or, ideally, circles with two-way arrow between the two circles.

Organizational factors Small group factors Interpersonal factors Intrapersonal factors

External organizations, publics, groups Laws and public policies Cultural values and beliefs

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Organizational factors:

Examples:

• Technology

• Size

• Structure

• Function

• Scope

Small group factors:

Examples:

• Small group dynamics (functional and dysfunctional)

• Peer pressure

• Team spirit

• Leadership-followership issues

• Group member motivations and qualifications

Interpersonal factors

Examples:

• Employee-subordinate relationship

• Trust--or lack of it--between individuals

• Friendship and affection between two individuals

External organizations, publics and groups

Examples:

• Competitors

• Vendors and suppliers

• Customers

• Potential customers

• Trade associations

• Professional associations

• Regulators

Laws and public policies

Examples:

• Corporate financial disclosure requirements

• Federal trade regulations

• Federal communication policies

• International trade agreements

Cultural values and beliefs

Examples:

• Assumption in the rule of law

• Expected relationship between men and women

• Degree of uncertainty accepted in society

• Emphasis on individualism versus collectivism