Virtuousness and un/ethical behaviour: The moderating role of power distance culture in select Indian public sector undertakings

Abstract

This study is an attempt to empirically examine the relationship between a manager's virtuousness, and ethical and unethical behaviour in the context of Indian public sector undertakings. The study also assesses the moderating role of power distance culture in the relationship. A total of 256 managers participated in the study. Exploratory factor analysis revealed two forms of ethical behaviours namely, manipulative behaviour and behaviour of being fair and responsible. As one of the major findings, perception towards power distance culture seems to moderate the relationship between virtuousness and both forms of ethical behaviours.

Keywords

• Virtuousness
• Ethical behaviour
• Manipulative behaviour
• Behaviour of being fair and responsible
• Power distance
• Public sector undertakings