An integrative ethical approach to leader favoritism

Yang, I., Horak, S. and Kakabadse, N. K. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9517-8279 (2021) An integrative ethical approach to leader favoritism. Business Ethics: A European Review, 30 (1). pp. 90-101. ISSN 1467-8608 doi: 10.1111/beer.12309

Abstract/Summary

Relationship building is one of the most important aspects of leadership; however, it can pose ethical challenges. Though particularistic treatment of employees by leaders, i.e. leader favoritism, commonly occurs, it is conventionally regarded negatively as fairness norms require leaders to treat followers equally. In this conceptual study, we explore different views on leader favoritism based on different ethical principles. We develop an alternative to the conventional view and suggest that leader favoritism may not necessarily lead to negative outcomes when empathy-based favoritism is applied. In this vein, we recommend drawing on the ethical principles of a utilitarian approach by balancing particularism and universalism, which is also helpful to build organizational social capital. We contribute to leadership theory by developing an early concept of an integrative ethical approach to leader favoritism.

Item Type	Article
URI	https://reading-clone.eprints-hosting.org/id/eprint/91770
Identification Number/DOI	10.1111/beer.12309
Refereed	Yes
Divisions	Henley Business School > Leadership, Organisations, Behaviour and Reputation
Publisher	Wiley
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