Before a decision, our "should" self (rational and ethical) is in charge. However, at the moment of the decision, the "want" self (impulsive and self-interested) takes over. Afterwards, we use "ethical fading" to justify our actions and maintain our positive self-image.
Just as we have limits on our cognitive abilities (bounded rationality), we have psychological limits that prevent us from seeing the ethical dimensions of our choices. Blind Spots: Why We Fail to Do What's Right and...
Organizations should audit their incentive structures. If you reward only the "bottom line," you are architecting an environment where ethical blind spots flourish. Before a decision, our "should" self (rational and
Instead of assuming we are perfectly ethical, we should acknowledge our biases so we can actively guard against them. Before a decision