Which mechanism can help reduce ethical blocks in an organization?

Decentralized decision making can significantly help reduce ethical blocks in an organization by empowering individuals at various levels to make decisions. This approach encourages a culture of transparency and accountability, as it allows employees to take ownership of their actions and consider the ethical implications of their choices in real time. When employees are given the autonomy to make decisions, they are more likely to feel valued and trusted, which can foster an environment conducive to ethical behavior.

In contrast, a strict hierarchical structure may lead to a top-down decision-making process, where lower-level employees might feel disempowered or hesitant to voice ethical concerns. Vague policy guidelines can create confusion about expected behaviors and the ethical standards of the organization, potentially leading to ethical lapses. Similarly, ambiguous job roles can make it difficult for employees to understand their responsibilities and ethical obligations, which can result in ethical dilemmas being overlooked or mishandled.

Overall, decentralized decision making encourages ethical practices by promoting a clearer understanding of roles and empowering individuals to act with integrity.