Ethics Paper
“Ethics is the branch of philosophy concerned with the intent, means, and consequences of moral behavior” (Manning and Curtis, 2015, p. 100). Individuals that demonstrate and integrate ethical behavior in their leadership strategies are establishing themselves as …show more content…
Russell, a professor in the Business department at Emory & Henry College authored the paper, “The role of values in servant leadership” (Russell, 2001, p.76). Although written more than fifteen years ago, the subject is still highly relevant to the conversation of values and leadership. Russell (2001) conducted a thorough review of the published literature at the time focused on the topic of values and servant leadership. “The fundamental proposition of the article is that the personal values of servant leaders distinguish them from other leader types” (Russell, 2001, p. 76).
The article explored the growing research interest in personal value systems, moral reasoning, and the role of values in leadership actions (Russell, 2001). The author confirmed the compelling influence and necessity that personal values have on leadership success owing to the research considered for the article. Not surprisingly, honesty, vision, ability, and inspiration encompassed the prominent characteristics for leaders across the research included (Russell, 2001). Russell noted the effect of leadership values on organizational values. “Thus, the values of the organizational culture evolve through a continuous interchange of leader and corporate values” (Russell, 2001, p.78). He concluded this section of the article with affirmation that personal values embody “the foundational essence of leadership” (Russell, 2001, p. …show more content…
The core principle of servant leadership is described by Stephen Covey as the aligning personal values and behaviors (As cited by Russell, 2001). Appropriately, he concentrated on three specific attributes: trust, appreciation of others, and empowerment (Russell, 2001). Trust in a leader is closely associated with the confidence and shared values according to the numerous research articles published on the subject (Russell, 2001). In regards to the appreciation of others, Russell cited copious research that articulated the “fundamental personal values that esteem and honor people” (2001, p.80). The final facet of servant leadership engaged the concept of empowerment, which is about teamwork, delegation, and motivation (Russell, 2001). Russell (2001) accentuated the attention leaders should give to their personal value systems, because of the force they have on leadership decisions and