Curt Verschoor on Ethics

CHAPTER 12STUDENTS

Ethical Behavior Differs Among Generations

In June, the Ethics Resource Center (ERC) published a new study that provides further analysis of its 2011 National Business Ethics Survey (NBES). The Washington, D.C.-based ERC is a private, nonprofit organization devoted to independent research and the advancement of high ethical standards and practices in public and private organizations. The initial analysis of the 2011 NBES showed unexpected and disturbing findings that may portend a future downward shift in business ethics. This new report, titled Generational Differences in Workplace Ethics, examines the differences in attitudes toward ethical issues among the four generational groups.

Demographics

The four generational groups examined in the survey are Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Generation X workers (Gen Xers), and Millennials or Generation Y workers (Gen Yers). Traditionalists, born 1925-1945, are hardworking, respectful of authority, and value loyalty. Baby Boomers, born 1946-1964, are hardworking, idealistic, and committed to harmony. Gen Xers, born 1965-1980, are entrepreneurial, flexible and self-reliant, and comfortable with technology. Millennials, born 1981-2000, are tech-savvy, appreciative of diversity, and skilled in multitasking.

Some of the negative traits and workplace attributes widely assigned to each cohort include:

• Traditionalists—Conformers who resist change, are disciplined and pragmatic, work and family lives never coincide, dress ...