WORK ETHICS IN ROMANIAN COMPANIES (II) - A DESCRIPTIVE AND A NORMATIVE APPROACH

Abstract

This article has as start point the following question: “Why do we work?” Indentifying at least three different answers, I consider that the attitude throughout work can be shaped based on these issue. At the first level, the value of work is based on the assumption that by work, the human being provides his living existence. On the second level, it is considered that the work supplies opportunities for self-expression, identity, drawing talent and enriching the personality. And on the last level, it is identified a new perspective upon work – as a reconciliation between private interest and public good. At each level, my aim is to present the status quo, but also the possible distresses when the value of work is bounded to one purpose, for example what happens if throughout our activity we are only absorbed to procure the supply basic needs or only to define our identity. If the attitude towards work specific for the first two levels is focused on "the desire to consumption", I consider that at the third level, the ethics governing employees shifted to “desire to production”. That means that workforce is not only interested in economic rewards nor the gratification of self fulfillment or professional accomplishment, - aspects relevant on what one can receive- but it is focused on how it can be help full for the organization or for society, being concern upon on what it can offer, making a reconciliation between private interest and public good.

Keywords

• work ethics, attitudes throughout work, economical and social reward